New scheme launched by West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner to care for police dogs

Simon Foster has launched a new Animal Welfare Volunteer Team, an innovative scheme which aims to ensure the highest standards of care and welfare for the force’s working animals.

The Animal Welfare Volunteer Team will consist of independent volunteers, including vets and dog experts, who will conduct thorough inspections of West Midlands Police dog kennels, training methods, vehicles and breeding programmes.

The inspections are designed to provide accountability, transparency and public reassurance regarding the care and welfare of the force’s 250 working dogs and puppies.

Mr Foster, said: “West Midlands Police dogs serve our communities and help to keep us safe. 

"The care and welfare of our working dogs is therefore of utmost importance.

“By launching the Animal Welfare Volunteer Team, we are demonstrating our commitment to accountability, transparency and the highest standards of care and welfare for our dogs.

“The volunteer team will play a crucial role in ensuring that our dogs are treated with the care and respect, they are entitled to. 

"I encourage people to join the Animal Welfare Volunteer Team.”

Volunteer Mark Doggett, who works for Guide Dogs UK as a training behaviour specialist, spoke about the importance of the PCC’s new initiative to ensure police dogs receive the best possible care.

He said: “We’ll be looking at and monitoring the welfare of police dogs where we’ll go out to training days and where dogs are deployed from, making checks to see that high standards are met.

“It’s important because if the welfare of the dogs is at an optimum, West Midlands Police will get the most out of them and it’s only right they’re cared for properly as working dogs.”

West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford said: “Our dog unit is an essential part of our force, and it is vital that we look after these incredible animals. 

"The Animal Welfare Volunteer Team will help us maintain the highest standards of care and ensure that our dogs are well-treated and well-trained to serve our community effectively.”

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner has invited members of the community who are passionate about animal welfare to join the volunteer team and contribute to the well-being of the force’s working animals.

For more information or to apply to become a volunteer, email wmpcc@westmidlands.police.uk