?
Wairarapa police dog Thames is still missing in the Mt Holdsworth area west of Carterton after becoming separated from his handler and Search and Rescue team members during a training exercise yesterday afternoon.
?
Senior Sergeant Mark Davidson, officer in charge of Wellington Police District dog section, says the fitness and resilience of three-year-old Thames, a sable coloured German Shepherd, will help him cope with the conditions.
?
“Searchers, including his handler, are combing tracks and gullies, and calling out for Thames.? We’re hopeful he’s making his way out.”
?
The Wairarapa SAR team had nearly finished a day long training exercise yesterday in the Totara Creek – Red Creek area when Thames, who has been an operational police dog since 2012, became separated from his handler.
?
The team stayed in the bush overnight and were joined today by the Wellington Police SAR squad who had training planned for today.
?
“There’s some very experienced people out there and we’ll keep looking to find the dog,” Senior Sergeant Davidson said.
?
Police are also buoyed by the calls from dog walkers and other animal lovers who have offered their help.
?
“We’ve got some kind hearted people checking public access roads and keeping an eye out for Thames.? It’s important however that only specialist searchers are checking the bush.”
?
Trampers, outdoor enthusiasts and those living in the rural community are asked to let police know if they spot the missing dog.
?
Attached photo shows Thames at his graduation in 2012.
?
Ends
Media contact:? Senior Sergeant Mark Davidson, 021 190 9744 or Kaye Calder, Public Affairs, 021 192 2915
?
?
