Search continues for police dog missing in Wairarapa bush

Wairarapa police dog Thames is still missing in the Mt Holdsworth area west of Carterton after becoming separated from his handler and Search and Rescue team members during a training exercise yesterday afternoon.

Senior Sergeant Mark Davidson, officer in charge of Wellington Police District dog section, says the fitness and resilience of three-year-old Thames, a sable coloured German Shepherd, will help him cope with the conditions.

“Searchers, including his handler, are combing tracks and gullies, and calling out for Thames. We’re hopeful he’s making his way out.”

The Wairarapa SAR team had nearly finished a day long training exercise yesterday in the Totara Creek – Red Creek area when Thames, who has been an operational police dog since 2012, became separated from his handler.

The team stayed in the bush overnight and were joined today by the Wellington Police SAR squad who had training planned for today.

“There’s some very experienced people out there and we’ll keep looking to find the dog,” Senior Sergeant Davidson said.

Police are also buoyed by the calls from dog walkers and other animal lovers who have offered their help.

“We’ve got some kind hearted people checking public access roads and keeping an eye out for Thames. It’s important however that only specialist searchers are checking the bush.”

Trampers, outdoor enthusiasts and those living in the rural community are asked to let police know if they spot the missing dog.

Attached photo shows Thames at his graduation in 2012.

ENDS

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