Police force looking for puppy minders

Surrey Police is looking for puppy minders to take in potential future police dogs for the first part of their lives.

The force said puppies are allocated to their foster parents at eight weeks old, staying with them until they are up to 15 months old.

Breeds include German shepherds, labradors, and spaniels, and minders must be willing to travel to training venues across Surrey and Sussex.

In a social media post, the force said: "It is not always an easy task, but help is given along the way by our police dog training school, and these puppies are raised to become fantastic potential police dogs."

The puppies can live with other dogs, and children, if they understood the expectations of puppy minding, the force said, adding that no experience was necessary.

"Yes it can be heart-breaking when these incredible puppies go off to start their careers, but knowing what a difference they make and the important work they do makes it all worth it," the force said.

Those interested can email [email protected] for an application form.

Earlier this month the force was granted permission to redevelop its Mount Browne headquarters on the outskirts of Guildford, which will include dog kennels.

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