PSD Aldo-Handler: Sgt. D. Yurkiw PSD Argo-Handler: Cst. K. Collum PSD Jack-Handler: Cst. T. Sweet PSD Ramo-Handler: Cst. P. Sevin The NWPS has provided police dog operational support to its members for many years. Over the years our dog section has increased in size to four teams of handlers and dogs with one handler also being the section's supervisor. These four teams provide a valuable support service to all divisions of the police service with their duties including foot beat public and school demonstrations, general patrol duties and canine support when required. In 1989 the New Westminster Police Service became the first agency in British Columbia to implement a training system in which both dog control (hold and bark) and handler attitudes are the key factors. Management introduced the program, known as the minimal force concept, and a unique "in-house" training program was commenced. The minimum force concept was developed from the sport of Schutzhund, which originated in Germany in the early 1900s. The philosophy of this concept is that the dog must never apply force, either through individual action or without the instruction of the handler, unless it is absolutely necessary. The NWPS training program is a three level process and is a modified version of Schutzhund training, which stresses tracking, obedience and protection. The first level is 12 weeks in duration and concludes with the team being tested to the BC Police Service Dog Standards in addition to the minimum force concept. With the selection of dogs from strong German Shepherd working lines, the section has operated with an average of 95% of apprehensions without physical contact between the police dog and the suspect. The Police Dog Section has proven to be a valuable resource in providing quality service to the community while maintaining a minimal force apprehension philosophy. If you have any questions or comments about the New Westminster Police Service Dog Section please contact us at tsweet@nwpolice.org