The law is their shepherd

THE Victoria Police dog squad is on the look-out for more adult German shepherds to help continue its fight against crime.
With about 34 dogs responsible for more than 1400 arrests last year, the squad needs adult shepherds to replace dogs approaching the end of their working lives, according to Sergeant Glenn Barrot.
It wants pure-bred German shepherds, aged between 12 months and two years, to search for burglars, sexual attackers, brawlers, prowlers and missing persons and to control armed and other violent situations.
“Skilled dogs play a very important part in operational policing,” Sgt Barrot said. “Your dog could help save a life and generally help to improve community safety.”
The dogs undergo a stringent testing process to make sure they are suitable for police work.
They must be exceptional with a sound temperament. Prerequisites include intelligence, boldness, keenness and the physical ability to cope with strenuous demands of police work.
Successful dogs will have about five months of intensive training involving obedience, agility, tracking, searching techniques and criminal work at the training centre in Attwood, Victoria. Dogs that do not meet the criteria will be returned to their owners.
For details call the Victoria Police dog squad on 9333 1300.