Carers sought for police puppies

A number of carers are needed to look after the puppies for the first year

Temporary homes are being sought in Devon for puppies which may one day be trained to become police dogs.

Devon and Cornwall Constabulary's Dog Unit is to take ownership of a number of German Shepherd puppies at its Exeter-based headquarters.

The force is now seeking volunteers to offer homes to them for up to a year.

The aim of the Puppy Development Scheme is for the dogs to have caring and friendly upbringings so they can become efficient and obedient police dogs.

Costs paid

After the year is up, the puppies will be reintroduced to the force where they will be assessed on a range of skills to test their likelihood of becoming a police dog.

The only criteria necessary is that households have a secure garden and, preferably, have no other dogs living there too.

All the puppies that come to us are very adorable and I am sure they will bring much enjoyment over 12 months Sgt Paul Glennon

Ideally, in order that the puppies become well socialised, the house will be located in an urban environment in Devon.

Sergeant Paul Glennon of the Force Dog Unit at Middlemoor said: "The aim of the Puppy Development Scheme is to prepare the puppy for life as a confident and social police dog.

"All the puppies that come to us are very adorable and I am sure they will bring much enjoyment over 12 months.

"The force will provide dog food and pay any veterinary costs incurred so all that we require of carers is that the puppies get sufficient exercise and regular grooming."

Anyone interested in becoming a puppy carer should contact Devon and Cornwall Police's dog training school.