Working dogs used in the fight to save endangered wildlife such as elephants and rhinos in Africa came from shelters in the USA and their success story was hosted in episode 7 of 'Shelter Me: Conservation Matters' by Jane Goodall. The episode summary mentions that Working Dogs for Conservation is an organization that trains shelter dogs to help protect endangered elephants and rhinos in Africa.
Working dogs were once abandoned at Amercian shelters
The Scientific American described Jane Goodall as "a British primatologist, ethologist, anthropologist, and UN Messenger of Peace, but if they could speak, the wildlife of Africa would call her a champion, an angel and a ray of hope for their future.
Speaking in the documentary video of 'Shelter Me: Community Matters," about the Working Dogs for Conservation, Jane said," several years ago I became aware of Working Dogs for Conservation, a group that trains American shelter dogs for work in Africa."
A spokesperson explains that millions of dogs are abandoned every year and that sometimes they display all the characteristics needed to become'detection' dogs. It is simply incredible to see a dog that was once unwanted and unloved, showing off all the skills of a professional working dog. Handed into a shelter by a caring passerby, we see the excitement and joy as the animal shows off new abilities - abilities that are put to good use in the fight for Africa's wildlife.
The homeless dogs are helping save wildlife in Africa
Jane explains that these once homeless dogs from Montana USA, are having an"enormous impact in the fight against poaching." In Zambia, these once homeless shelter dogs have a direct impact on poaching activities and this has to be one of the most gratifying stories of 2017.
Working dog Vicka is praised by her handler, a Zambian who helps in the poaching war. "I love Vicka very well," he says of his canine companion who works alongside him and his colleagues to save animals from extinction through poaching.
Watch the heartwarming video below and see how these dogs, once destined for a life of misery, or a cruel death are enriching the wildlife of Africa and those who live to serve conservation.
