Here’s How Puppies Can Help Stop Poaching

Puppies bred and trained in Wales are saving endangered wildlife across southern Africa, with specially trained dogs helping rangers track poachers and protect rhinos, elephants and other threatened species.

“When these dogs join a reserve, poaching almost disappears — even their presence is a deterrent,” said Darren Priddle, co-founder of the conservation group Dogs4Wildlife.

The non-profit has bred and trained 15 dogs that now work in five African countries, including South Africa and Zimbabwe. Trained from just two days old, the dogs can track poachers for miles, detect ivory and bushmeat, and alert rangers to danger. Their work has led to arrests, rescued animals, and inspired local children through a wildlife education programme that teaches the next generation to protect nature rather than exploit it.