Police Dog Trial filled with fun and action
About 2 000 dog lovers shared fun and excitement at the Police Dog Trial 2010 jointly organised by the Police Dog Unit and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Hong Kong) [SPCA(HK)] at Sham Shui Po Sports Ground on October 31.
The trial was for the first time open to the public and held to raise funds for charity. Around 500 people from families of limited means were sponsored to attend the event, which aimed at raising $120 000 for SPCA(HK) to support the cause of advancing the well-being of animals.
Officiating at the kick-off ceremony, Assistant Commissioner (Operations) Wong Chi-hung said the competition provided an opportunity for police dog handlers to hone their handling skills in a competitive arena and at the same time to showcase the dogs' intelligence and obedience.
He believed the event would promote a better understanding of the work of the Police Dog Unit and enhance public awareness of animal welfare and protection.
Also speaking at the ceremony, SPCA Executive Director, Mr Sandy Macalister, said: "Our Police and their dogs provide an excellent example of the strong bond between humans and dogs that can be achieved through good care and training and how such a partnership can benefit our community."
The spectators were impressed by the skilful performances and the close bond between the handlers and their canine partners demonstrated in competitions. They also showed a great interest in drug detection demonstration by police dogs, chitchat sessions on pet care and dog training, and booth games.
After fierce competition, Gabby and her handler, Tsang Chiu-hong, clinched the Overall Championship title, in addition to the obedience competition, while Major and his handler, Lo Kai-chung, won the man-work competition.
At the prize presentation ceremony, Director of Operations Hung Hak-wai congratulated the winners for their good work and thanked all participants for their support and contributions for the event.
Mr Hung also expressed special thanks to Hong Kong Sham Shui Po Industry & Commerce Association for sponsoring the production cost of the event and to SPCA (HK) for co-organising this charity event.
 Mr Hung presents a prize to Gabby and its
handler |
 Gabby, the Overall Champion |
 Major and its handler also get a prize |
 A Police Dog Unit officer presents a
cheque to a SPCA (HK) representative |
 A Police dog goes through its paces |
 Subduing a thug is an important part of a
Police dog's training |
 There is good rapport between a Police dog
and its handler |
 Police dogs catch many kids' fancy |
The Dog Trial attracts a large crowd |