BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – PREGO, the newest police dog to join the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force was officially welcomed yesterday, Wednesday, June 20, during a donation ceremony at Independence Square.
The donation was made by the Coalition of Support for St. Kitts-Nevis Security Initiatives (CSSKNSI) which includes Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, the Royal St. Kitts Hotel & Casino, Cockleshell Bay Development, St. Kitts, Christophe Harbour St. Kitts, Four Seasons Resort, Nevis, Windsor University and St. Kitts Marriott Resort/ Royal Beach Casino
John Zuliani, President of the Royal St. Kitts Hotel said that the canine arrived on May 13 and has completed the necessary tests and underwent a month-long training programme in Florida.
“The donation of the police dog was important to the Coalition, because it provides an asset to the police force. The dog is trained to track criminals, detect firearms and search buildings. It has a unique sense of smell that a human does not, of course,” he said.
Zuliani said that Ross University has agreed to provide veterinary care for the dog.
The dog was also given a uniform (a police vest) and two feeding bowls.
Dr. Nicholas Spaccarelli, Assistant Professor and Clinician at the Ross University said that Prego, which is a German Shepherd, is about two years old, very healthy, in his prime condition and a very viable police dog.
“The police dog is selected for the species drive to focus, their potential to succeed, and their lasting stamina; these are working animals. They’re very committed to task when working and some German Shepherds have the bite force of up to 1,500 lbs per square inch,” he said.
Spaccarelli said that Prego has spent some time with his handler Constable Julius Wyatt of the Canine Unit and that it was important that he builds a bond with him.
He also gave tips for caring for pets that will keep them healthy and happy.
He explained that CARE stood for Correct food and water, Appropriate shelter, Regular veterinary care and Exercise and Training.
The vet advised that when approaching the dogs in general people should approach with care and in the right frame of mind.
He said with Prego or any police dog, one has to ask his handler for permission before approaching.
“Approach in a non-aggressive manner, don’t make direct eye contact, that’s a sign of aggression. Approach them indirectly and slowly, don’t ever feed or touch the dog unless the handler tells you; we want to be calm and don’t make quick movements around him,” he said.
Police Commissioner Celvin G. Walwyn received the gifts on behalf of the Force before presenting them to Constable Wyatt and thanked the coalition for another tool in their fight against crime as they take back the streets.
“I know the dog costs a lot of money, money that I don’t have, but you saw fit to provide for the agency, for the people of the Federation,” he said.
“The group has already invested almost a half a million or a little more so far - their heart and soul are in the interest and safety of all people of the Federation.”
Commissioner Walwyn thanked Wyatt for attending the training and said that it was not easy.
He said the constable had to drive 20 miles each way to attend the training but did so, so that the people of the Federation could be safe.
“When persons step out their door, fear shouldn’t be on their minds, and they shouldn’t be looking over their shoulders. We want the criminals to know as you increase your chances of getting away, we will increase our chances of catching you.”
He asked the community to continue working with the police and reminded them that they could also reach out to him if they had information concerning a crime.
“You can call my number 662-2145, or you can email me cgwalwyn@gmail.com,” he said.
A demonstration followed where Prego was able to follow a trail in the Square and discover an object that was hidden as part of the exercise.
