The Isle of Man Police Dog Unit have recently bred two of their working German Shepherd dogs, Bodie (dad) and Saxon (mum). The resultant litter consists of 8 puppies of which 6 are girls and 2 boys. The puppies are currently 5 weeks old and doing well. The Isle of Man Police are keeping one girl for succession planning within the Dog Unit and Cumbria Police are taking two for their Dog Unit. Another puppy will potentially be donated to a UK charity, Service Dogs UK and International (SDUKI) who assist dog units Internationally with funding and dog acquisition at these times of financial restraint within Government. They are currently providing assistance to the Isle of Man Police Dog Unit with an instructors course in the UK to further development within the unit. Sgt Ian Kelly said; ‘ We are really pleased how well this has worked out, and the strong links we have with Cumbria and SDUKI are further benefitted too. Sourcing quality dogs is an ongoing challenge for all forces, and we are pleased to assist. In return, we get the help we need in respect of training and mutual aid from strong partners, which in turn helps us provide a better service to the Island.’ ENDS