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About 2000 dog lovers shared the fun and excitement at the Police Dog Trial 2010 co-organised by the Hong Kong Police Dog Unit and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Hong Kong) [SPCA(HK)] today (October 31).
The trial was for the first time open for public viewing and held for charity purpose. Five hundred people from families of limited means were sponsored to attend the event. It was also acted as a fundraiser, aiming 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 of Police (Operations), Mr Wong Chi-hung, said the competition provided an opportunity for the police dog handlers to hone their handling skills in a competitive arena and at the same time showcased police 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.
Executive Director of the SPCA, 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 all impressed by the skilful performances and the close bond between the handlers and their canine partners demonstrated in the competitions. They also showed great interest in the drug detection demonstration by police dogs, chit-chat sessions about pet care and dog training, and the booth games.
After fierce competition, GABBY and her handler, Mr Tsang Chiu-hong, clinched the Overall Championship title, in addition to the winner of obedience competition, while the winners of the man-work competition were MAJOR and his handler, Mr Lo Kai-chung.
At the prize presentation ceremony, Police Director of Operations, Mr Hung Hak-wai, Paul, congratulated the winners for their good work and thanked all participants for their support and contributions that made this meaningful event a success.
Special thanks were given to Hong Kong Sham Shui Po Industry & Commerce Association for its sponsorship to cover the production cost of the event and SPCA(HK) for their co-operation in organising this charity event.
Police Report No.7
Ends/Sunday, October 31, 2010
Issued at HKT 19:17
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