PROBLEMS WITH RCMP POLICE DOG PROGRAM POSE ‘HEALTH AND WELLNESS RISKS’: EVALUATION

OTTAWA – The RCMP’s police dog training centre has been struggling with staffing shortages, low morale, and deteriorating facilities that present health hazards to both officers and canines, according to an internal review.

The evaluation of the RCMP’s police dog services highlights several ongoing challenges within the program, which trains and supplies four-legged units to assist with protecting VIPs, supporting emergency teams, and detecting suspects and illicit drugs.

The review, which examined the governance and operations of the police dog services from 2018-19 to 2023-24, was based on interviews and a survey conducted across RCMP divisions and the training centre.

The evaluation found that RCMP dog services, which trace their origins to 1935 when the force acquired its first puppy, are highly valued by front-line members.

To meet the demand for German Shepherds, the RCMP has increasingly relied on its own breeding program, as prices and availability of these dogs have become more challenging.

Imprinting begins once a puppy passes a seven-week assessment and is then paired with a member who has completed a specialized handler course. Training starts when the dog reaches one to two years of age, with the goal of forming a highly effective team between the handler and the dog.

The breeding program plays a critical role in sustaining the service, providing a steady supply of dogs for training and deployment, according to the reviewers.

However, the evaluation also identified several challenges, including the lengthy imprinting process, insufficient resources for supporting imprinters and trainers, limited training opportunities, and inadequate infrastructure at the training centre.

During the review period, only 17 of 26 positions at the training centre were filled. Some staff members noted that even with a full complement of staff, additional positions would still be needed to meet the growing demands of front-line policing.

In 2005, the centre had seven trainers and 125 active dog teams. By 2022, this had increased to just eight trainers and 157 teams in the field.

Some interviewees reported that there were not enough dog handlers to cover absences due to holidays, time off, or illness. Handlers shared that they often took their dogs and equipment with them on vacation to remain available for deployment when necessary.

“The work environment and infrastructure at the training centre present significant health and wellness risks to both employees and dogs,” the evaluation states.

It cites an audit conducted in early 2023, which found that the centre was lacking in 11 of 13 key psychological factors necessary for a healthy workplace.

The evaluation seems to corroborate these findings, with interviewees expressing a lack of control over their work and feeling overburdened. They also reported poor communication and pointed to management issues as contributing to low morale.

Many handlers declined to house their police service dogs at the Police Dog Service Training Centre in Alberta, citing stressful and potentially hazardous conditions in the kennels.

Stressors included a lack of natural light, no access to outdoor areas, and high noise levels during feeding and cleaning times. Hazards ranged from the risk of dogs choking on peeling flooring, to potential lead poisoning from ingesting paint flakes, and respiratory issues due to poor ventilation.

The evaluation also highlighted health risks faced by dog service teams in the field. While attending high-risk calls, often alongside emergency response units, handlers frequently lack essential safety gear such as night vision goggles, ballistic helmets, and protective masks.

Additionally, handlers reported working extensive overtime and being on call frequently.

“Interviewees noted that the job takes a toll on their physical and mental health, with some suggesting the need for access to psychologists who are familiar with the unique stresses of the role.”

In response to these findings, the evaluators provided several recommendations aimed at improving health and safety, as well as addressing issues with the program’s policies, reporting structure, sustainability, and training.

An RCMP management response, included in the evaluation, outlines a series of planned actions to make improvements over the coming year and beyond.