Key Takeaways:
- Working dogs in Northern Ireland, such as assistance dogs, police dogs, and farm dogs, remain on duty over the Christmas holiday.
- These dogs play a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities, keeping communities safe, and helping with farm work.
- Despite their important work, these dogs are still able to enjoy some festive fun and treats with their families.
- The bond between these dogs and their handlers is strong, and they are considered valued members of the family.
- The dogs’ work is essential, especially during the holiday season when socializing and nightlife increase, and anti-social behavior may rise.
Introduction to Working Dogs
The Christmas holiday is a time for relaxation and celebration for many people, but for some dogs in Northern Ireland, it’s just another day on the job. These working dogs, including assistance dogs, police dogs, and farm dogs, are essential to their communities and families. They provide support, protection, and help with daily tasks, and their work is crucial to the well-being of those around them. In this article, we’ll meet some of these working dogs and their handlers, and learn more about their important roles.
Assistance Dogs: Providing Support and Comfort
For Lucia Kane, a 17-year-old girl with autism and Tourette syndrome, her assistance dog Jojo is a constant companion and source of comfort. Jojo, a seven-year-old black Labrador, is trained to sense when Lucia’s stress levels rise and responds by lying close or across her to help calm her down. Lucia’s mum, Elizabeth Kane, says that Jojo has transformed her daughter’s life, giving her confidence and helping her to interact with people. Despite the challenges of the holiday season, which can be overwhelming for Lucia, Jojo is always by her side, providing reassurance and support.
Police Dogs: Keeping Communities Safe
In Londonderry, police dogs Igi and Kodi will be on duty over Christmas, working to keep their community safe. Igi, a German Shepherd Dog, is a general police patrol dog, and Kodi, a Cocker Spaniel, is a search dog. They may be called on to attend a variety of incidents, from anti-social behavior to missing persons cases. Their handler, Insp Neil Harrison, says that the dogs’ presence can often de-escalate tense situations, and their skills are invaluable to the policing efforts. When they’re not working, Igi and Kodi will enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation, and maybe even some festive treats.
Farm Dogs: Essential to Daily Life
On a farm in County Londonderry, sheepdog Bowie, a collie and Australian Kelpie mix, is an essential member of the team. Farmer Thomas Conway says that a good sheepdog is worth 10 people on the farm, and Bowie is no exception. Along with the farm’s other dogs, including springer spaniels Bob, Lala, George, and Flo, Bowie works hard every day, including Christmas Day. The dogs will help Thomas with his rounds, checking on the livestock and sheep, and will even get to enjoy some special treats, including turkey and ham.
The Bond Between Dogs and Handlers
The bond between these working dogs and their handlers is strong, and they are considered valued members of the family. Whether they’re providing support and comfort, keeping communities safe, or helping with daily tasks, these dogs are essential to the lives of those around them. As we celebrate the holiday season, it’s important to remember the important work that these dogs do, and the joy and companionship they bring to their families. By recognizing the value of these working dogs, we can appreciate the important role they play in our communities and show our gratitude for all that they do.