CRPF introduces public adoption for retired service dogs

The CRPF has introduced a first-of-its-kind online service, enabling the public to adopt retired sniffer and assault dogs from India's largest paramilitary force, ensuring that these four-legged soldiers get a comfortable second life.

This initiative marks the first time any security force has made its trained dogs available for public adoption. In the past, there were concerns over the potential misuse of these highly trained and motivated dogs by anti-national groups. Until now, retired dogs from the central forces and state police were handed over to registered NGOs or reputable organizations for their care.

Now, over 30 dogs from four breeds—Belgian Shepherd Malinois, German Shepherd, Labrador, and the indigenous Mudhol Hound—are available for adoption through a comprehensive process monitored by the CRPF's specialized Dog Breeding and Training School (DBTS) near Bengaluru.

These dogs, aged between 8 and 12 years, have been part of numerous operations in anti-Naxal, counter-insurgency, and counter-terrorism efforts across the country. Their actions have saved the lives of many soldiers, especially by detecting improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and preventing deadly ambushes laid by Maoists and terrorists. Dogs like Baloo, Sweety, Veeru, Moby, Coco, and Stroll have undergone intense training in various roles, including explosive detection, tracking, infantry patrol, and assault.

The adoption process is free, and potential adopters can view basic details and pictures of the dogs available for adoption on the CRPF website. Interested parties must complete a form that outlines their reasons for adopting the dog, how they plan to care for the canine (e.g., as a companion, guard, or therapy dog), and provide accommodation details.

A compatibility meeting will be arranged between the adopter and the dog at a designated camp. The dogs will be groomed by behavior experts to help them adjust to a domestic environment. A brief profile, picture, and citation for each dog, referred to as "soldier buddies," will be available on the CRPF portal. It is emphasized that the adopter should treat the dog with dignity, compassion, and due care.

The CRPF will sign a legally binding agreement with the adopter, providing the KCI (Kennel Club of India) registration certificate, vaccination records, and other important documents for the dog.

"Initiating public adoption of our retired dogs is an effort to ensure a happy second life for our canine soldiers," said CRPF Deputy Inspector General Moses Dhinakaran.

Clear terms and conditions are in place to ensure no abuse or ill-treatment of the dogs. They cannot be sold or used for any commercial purposes or deployed against any individual. The CRPF will conduct periodic checks and maintain regular communication with the adopters through short videos and live videoconferencing. The adopter is also responsible for providing emotional and therapeutic care, especially if the dog is found to be distressed.

Through this initiative, the CRPF hopes to ensure that these brave and loyal dogs find a loving home and family. The force highlights the temperament of Zina, a Belgian Shepherd Malinois, as an example of an ideal companion—loyal and protective, yet gentle, making her perfect for families.

With over 3.25 lakh personnel, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is India’s leading internal security force, operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs.