Purpose of the project The K9 National Project manages all canine related SHR activity in our national parks The K9 Project has received outstanding support from donors and members in 2023/2024. This enabled the project to secure several wish list items for the eight national parks that have K9 capability. The K9 Project has supported national parks with dog handler training, equipment, infrastructure and emergency veterinary care. Kruger National Park: Several infrastructure projects were undertaken and completed. A training centre at the Phabeni K9 Centre was built and furnished to facilitate the re-evaluation and certification of handlers and their dogs. The following donors are thanked for their contribution: The Alyssa Carter Rhino Fund, Blankets for Baby Rhinos, Shop and Ship, Saul and Shevi Jassinowsky and 1721 Distributors (Pty) Ltd. With the assistance of the Pretoria Region, two modern dog kennels have been constructed at Houtboschrand Section in the Kruger National Park. In collaboration with the acting K9 Manager in the Kruger National Park, the K9 Project identified the need to assist dog handlers to manage the significant levels of stress they face in their work. Thanks to the generous support of Blankets for Baby Rhinos and Cumbria Overseas Aid Trust (COAT), the K9 soccer and netball teams were established, and kit was provided. The teams will compete in sports days and friendly matches held within the park. We are grateful to Hill’s Pet Nutrition for their invaluable contribution to SANParks’ K9 units. The dogs in the Kruger National Park had their teeth professionally cleaned and were given essential dental care. Hill’s supports K9s teams in national parks throughout the country and are thanked for their ongoing commitment to our conservation work. Sam Madelane and Bennie. 80 SANParks Honorary Rangers 2024 K9 WATCHDOG NATIONAL PROJECT Members’ activities continued
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