Editorial: Search for police dog worth it

Constable Mike Wakefield holds his police dog Thames close after finding him on a 1000m exposed ridge yesterday.

I was relieved to hear that police dog Thames was found safe and well yesterday.

The german shepherd disappeared during training in the Tararua Range last Sunday. His handler Constable Mike Wakefield and Wairarapa staff searched the rugged terrain all week, with no luck.

Having had to hunt for my own wayward german shepherd, I understand their despair. Fortunately, I soon found him down the road at McDonald's.

As the days ticked over and Thames still hadn't been found, I began to lose hope.

But just as the search was set to be scaled back, paw prints were spotted.

Thames came running when the search and rescue team whistled.

Mr Wakefield, who was part of the search team, was reportedly "ecstatic" to see his workmate.

Thames was hungry but in good condition, police said.

It's not cheap to conduct a week-long search and rescue operation. Spending taxpayers dollars rescuing lost tourists is often a bone of contention, so what about rescuing our four-legged friends?

Police dogs play an important part on the frontline and it costs a lot to get them there. It costs up to $60,000 to fully train them. Four-year-old Thames still has a long working life ahead of him.

He has potential to help track down offenders, work with the Armed Offenders Squad, recover victims and take part in search and rescue operations -- as the rescuer this time.

I believe every dollar was well spent. I do, however, wonder what tales Thames would tell if he could share his story.