Conservation k9s
The EWT Conservation K9s form a key part of the EWT’s Canine Conservation Unit (CCU). These highly trained dogs support conservation through scent detection and tracking. Specifically, they play two vital roles. First, they aid anti-poaching efforts in game reserves. Second, they sniff out wildlife contraband before smugglers can export it.
Additionally, the unit serves as a resource for conservation partners, private landowners, and other stakeholders. The dogs perform critical conservation tasks, while the EWT provides handler training and certification.
For anti-poaching work, the dogs track poachers, find snares, and detect weapons or spent cartridges. Meanwhile, detection dogs identify illegal wildlife products, plants, and poisons. Thanks to their versatility, they support a wide range of conservation efforts. To stay ahead, we constantly explore new ways to use these skilled canines, ensuring the EWT remains a leader in conservation K9 work.
In practice, we provide trained dogs for reserves and certify handlers. Regularly, teams conduct vehicle searches at reserve gates, checking for weapons, rhino horn, ivory, and other illegal goods. Moreover, tracking K9s patrol for signs of illegal entry and help investigate poaching incidents.
DETECTION DOGS AGAINST POACHING IN SOUTH AFRICA
The DER Touristik Foundation supports the EWT with funding for a dog handler, a sniffer dog and a tracking dog and their medical care. The dog and handler are a solid team. The handler takes care of the needs of his animal partner, whose well-being has the highest priority.
