According to the NZ Herald, police dogs are going to start wearing stab-proof vests while on duty. Although these working dogs are unlikely to be injured during duty, there have been some instances in the past in which a stab-proof harness could’ve prevented some serious injury. And in a few instances, death.
The one-kilogram Mako harness is made from layered polymer panels and non-absorbent nylon which shields dog’s vital organs from stabbing, slashing, kicks and blows much like police officers' own vests.
The vest also features reflective panels and a handle for lifting the dogs that make traditional harnesses obsolete.
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Police dog, Halo, who usually patrols in Marlborough, is one of 10 police dogs receiving a new vest this week, the first wave of a national rollout to all 130 patrol dogs in the force.
Senior Sergeant Mark Davidson said the vests were a "milestone" for dog safety.
"We've been really aware over the years that our dogs had only speed and mobility for protection but with this new harness we've given them another level of protection alongside that."
The introduction of the vests comes four months after police dog Gazza was fatally attacked during a siege in Porirua.
All patrol dogs are to be suited up within the next three months.
It’s the little things that count. Sometimes a little gesture can go a long way -- it can brighten up anyone’s day. Even our dog’s.
A Tauranga dog owner has taken to social media to thank his local postie for lavishing his German shepherd with love and attention.
The video posted on Facebook shows the postie propping his bike against Collins’ fence as dog Kyza comes over to greet him.
The postie pats and caresses the nine-month-old pup, who responds by attempting to give him a wet doggie kiss.
“He always gets overlooked as a dangerous or unapproachable dog, maybe cause he's big. I am not sure,” Mr. Collin wrote in the video caption.
“He doesn't bark at them or grow. But this guy here always makes an effort to get off his bike to give him a hug and a pat!
The NZ Herald has identified the man as Te Puke postie Steve Hennum.
You can watch the heartwarming video here.
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