First Cumbria Police dogs to be born and bred for operation in the county

First Cumbria Police dogs to be born and bred for operation in the county

The patter of tiny paws is soon to be heard at Cumbria Constabulary’s Dog Unit following news that one of our operational dogs is pregnant.

Millie, a springer spaniel who works as drug detection dog, is due to give birth in early November. Scans have shown that she is carrying at least three puppies.

This will be the first litter from a Cumbria Constabulary dog since 2007. It is also the first time ever that the litter will be of puppies that will become operational dogs for Cumbria Constabulary.

Sergeant Mark Yielder, from the Cumbria Constabulary Dog Unit, said: “There are number of handlers walking round like proud grandfathers at the minute. We are all very happy that Millie is pregnant.

“The idea is that Millie will give birth at the home of her handler and then the puppies will be brought up to the Dogs Unit at Police Headquarters and will rest in our purpose made puppy kennel. The kennel is fitted with heated lamps and whelping beds so the puppies will be as comfortable as possible.

“The advantages of breeding our own dogs are that we can train them from an early age and there is no cost to the public as we don’t have to buy them in from a breeder.”

The father is Alfie who is also a drug detection dog. Millie has now been taken out of duty so she can rest in preparation for the birth.