Loyal detection dogs enjoy well-deserved retirement in Türkiye
Vuslat, the drug detection dog who served for 10 years with the Artvin Provincial Gendarmerie Command, enjoys his retirement in these memorable photos, Türkiye, July 11, 2021 (IHA Photo)
Türkiye’s mine and drug detection dog heroes are enjoying their well-earned retirement with exceptional care and attention. Among them are “Afis,” “Liman,” and “Sakit,” three mine detection dogs who served with distinction in explosive detection operations as part of the Batman Provincial Gendarmerie Command.
After years of dedicated service, these loyal companions retired and now thrive in a specially designed park tailored to their needs.
Loyal companions honored for their service
After years of service in crucial counterterrorism operations, “Afis” and “Sakit” retired in 2021, while “Liman” retired in 2022. These specially trained dogs, known for their sensitive noses, played a key role in detecting and neutralizing hidden explosives, aiding security forces in their fight against terrorism.
Despite their retirement, the three mine detection dogs continue to be cared for at the Provincial Gendarmerie Command, where their daily needs, including health and wellness, are meticulously met.
Expert care for retired heroes
Gendarmerie Sergeant Ozkan Boztepe, an instructor for mine detection dogs, explained that most of the dogs serving within the gendarmerie are trained at the Gendarmerie Horse and Dog Training Center (JAKEM). These dogs undergo rigorous testing, assessing their breed characteristics and abilities such as play, search, alert signals and sensitivity to surroundings. Based on these results, they are assigned to specialized fields like mine detection, bomb detection, and search-and-rescue.
Boztepe emphasized that, like their active counterparts, retired dogs receive regular health checks and vaccinations. Their diets are enriched with special food items like eggs, milk, and yogurt for bone health, and they are frequently examined by veterinarians to ensure their well-being.
Keeping retired dogs active and engaged
Boztepe noted that even in retirement, the dogs remain active. They are given opportunities to play with their favorite toys and participate in conditioning exercises to maintain their physical health. The retired dogs also receive daily grooming, monthly baths, and periodic dental care, with toy bones provided to keep their teeth healthy.
He also highlighted that antiseptic solutions are used to maintain the dogs’ eye, fur, and nail health, particularly as they age. Despite taking on new dogs for active duty, the handlers continue to care for and train their former companions.
Lifetime of loyalty and care
Boztepe concluded by expressing the gendarmerie’s deep commitment to these loyal companions: “The Gendarmerie honors these devoted dogs, who dedicated their lives to the service of citizens, by ensuring they receive care and attention for the rest of their lives.”
The retirement of mine detection dogs in Batman is marked by dedicated care, ensuring that these loyal companions enjoy their golden years after serving in vital explosive detection operations. Their ongoing well-being reflects the gendarmerie’s unwavering commitment to these heroes who once protected lives.
Retired drug detection dog Vuslat enjoys relaxing retirement in Türkiye
Vuslat, the 10-year veteran drug detection dog with the Artvin Provincial Gendarmerie Command, is now enjoying a well-deserved retirement. After a special retirement ceremony, Vuslat took to the beaches of Hopa, soaking up the sun and sipping cold drinks.
Throughout a decade of service, Vuslat participated in 466 operations and helped seize over 750 kg of narcotics. Photos capturing Vuslat’s retirement moments were shared by the Artvin Provincial Gendarmerie Command on social media.
Kirsehir Gendarmerie Command’s beloved drug detection dog, Cimri, retired in 2019
In 2019, Cimri, the drug detection dog serving under the Kirsehir Gendarmerie Command, retired after a decade of dedicated service. According to an announcement from the Gendarmerie Command, Cimri, who served as a narcotics detection dog, was officially retired after completing ten years of duty.
During his career, Cimri participated in 453 operations and was instrumental in seizing over 150 kilograms of illegal drugs.
The retirement of these detection dogs is a testament to the Gendarmerie’s enduring respect and care for its service animals. Afis, Liman, Sakit, Vuslat and Cimri, who each played a pivotal role in ensuring public safety, are now being honored with a quality of life that matches their years of dedication. Their continued health and happiness in retirement underscore the Gendarmerie’s unwavering commitment to these brave dogs who once safeguarded lives through their exceptional skills.
