The National Republican Guard (GNR) marked World Dog Day this Tuesday, celebrated annually on August 26.
In a statement, the authorities highlighted the “essential role played by their canine unit dogs, who daily contribute to the safety and well-being of all Portuguese citizens.”
The GNR further elaborated on the missions these four-legged agents perform, including:
- Specialized patrol duties;
- Security of sensitive facilities;
- Public order enforcement;
- Pursuit and capture of fugitives;
- Tactical intervention in special situations;
- Detection of drugs, weapons, currency, tobacco, explosives, and poisons;
- Detection of corpses and biological traces;
- Search and rescue of missing persons in rural areas or rubble.
The authorities detailed the operation of these canine missions. “GNR dogs are selected based on rigorous criteria that ensure their aptitude for the assigned missions,” they assured, noting that “among the most common breeds are the Belgian Malinois, German Shepherd, Dutch Shepherd, and Labrador Retriever, as well as others like the Brittany Spaniel, German Shorthaired Pointer, and Cocker Spaniel.”
Regarding the process, it was explained that after selection, “the dogs undergo an intensive training program that covers not only the development of technical and physical skills but also strengthens the relationship with the handler.”
The GNR emphasized that the bond between the animal and its handler is based on “mutual trust, respect, and dedication,” which is crucial for the success of the missions carried out by the canine unit.
“On this World Dog Day, the GNR pays tribute to its ‘four-legged soldiers,’ thanking them for the loyalty, dedication, and friendship that make them irreplaceable partners in the protection and safety of everyone,” they concluded.
See the images in the gallery above.
