Dexter is a dog that most definitely needs a job to fulfil his drive” – Police Dog Trainer Cindy Hargreave

Dexter, an 18-month-old Labrador, was handed to Dogs Trust in January. Dexter was assessed as having a strong working instinct and he has now completed training to be a Wiltshire Police Dog.

Dexter’s Dog Trainer Cindy Hargreave said: “Dexter is larger than life in everything he does. We have found that he throws himself into everything with total commitment and he is always fully focused on every task he is asked to perform.

“Dexter is resilient and able to recover from situations quickly which is one of the many qualities we look for in a Police Dog.

“Dexter is happiest when he is working and he thrives on searching and performing his role as a specialist search dog.

“Dexter lived with me for the first few months of his life after Wiltshire Police adopted him from Dogs Trust, prior to resettling with his handler. I gradually exposed him to all things environmental that would assist him in his new role and began his training in preparation for his course. This entailed training his indication, which is the position he offers once he locates what he is trained to find, and developing his search skills around vehicles building and routes/areas.

“I’m pleased to say Dexter went from strength to strength on his initial course proving that he was a dog that most definitely needed a job to fulfil his drive.”

Wiltshire Police joined the Animal Welfare Visitors Scheme (AWS) in 2024 and have trained three dogs rehomed through Dogs Trust. The scheme was launched nationally in 2002 to ensure that the training, housing and transport of police dogs meet high animal welfare standards.

Louise Crawford, Animal Welfare Scheme Coordinator at Dogs Trust, said: “Dexter is the third dog adopted from Dogs Trust by Wiltshire Police since they joined the Animal Welfare Scheme in 2024. Dexter was identified by the team at Dogs Trust Cardiff as being suitable for a working home due to his strong working instinct.

“I am delighted that Dexter has completed his training and is now a fully licensed police dog. Rescue dogs have so much to offer and can achieve great things, as Dexter’s story illustrates.

“We wish him a long and happy career with Wiltshire Police.”

The Animal Welfare Visitors Scheme has been in place for police dog units for the past 24 years, and Dogs Trust has supported the scheme since its inception.

More information about Dogs Trust’s work with service dogs can be found on the charity’s website www.dogstrust.org.uk/how-we-help/professionals/service-dogs

Image Provided By Wiltshire Police