Drug detection dog Bob has completed his first day on the job with Brussels police. During a police operation a few years ago the 2½-year-old Malinois was found in a badly neglected state but has really come into his own at the Brussels police kennels of late, says inspector Tessa, his loyal companion.
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Found in a neglected state two years ago, Bob is now a drug dog with Brussels police
Colin Clapson
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Bob had been found in a partially flooded basement in the capital but at the police kennels the dog immediately showed a great deal of potential. “Not as a patrol dog,” says Tessa. “He was a bit too gentle for that, despite what had happened. However, he did have a strong prey drive.”
During his training as a drug detection dog, Bob’s rubber ball was systematically replaced by small doses of drugs. After 50 days, the sheepdog passed all tests with flying colours. “And his addition to the police service is certainly welcome,” says inspector Tim Huysmans of the dogs unit. “Given the increasing number of drug-related offences.”
No barking allowed!
As a silent drug detection dog, Bob was trained not only to recognise drugs, but also to indicate illicit substances using his nose and without barking. This makes the German Shepherd suitable for deployment during checks, including at Haren prison, on public transport and in the hospitality sector.
Bob had his baptism of fire alongside his handler Tessa and fellow drug detection dog Kyra. “The two dogs get on really well,” says Tessa. “Dogs are a real passion of mine, and that was the reason I joined the police as a dog handler in the first place. I could never part with Bob now.”