The Malta Red Cross’s K9 unit, based in Gozo, saw its origins in 2001 with the help of the Italian Red Cross. The K9 Unit involves trained dogs when searching for missing people.

As part of the ongoing training for dog handlers, the Malta Red Cross branch in Gozo and the Civil Protection Department have recently concluded a Leonardo da Vinci Mobility Project entitled ‘Search and Rescue Dog Training’. Five volunteers – three from the Red Cross and two from the Civil Protection Department - participated in a three-week placement programme in Italy, under the supervision of the Croce Rossa.

Prior to their departure, a series of training workshops were held in Malta by foreign trainers, to ensure the proper preparation of the participants. In Italy, these volunteers visited specialised training centres in Pisa, Milan, Turin and Rome. Training included search and rescue on rubble, human support, dog psychology, alimentation and preparation of rescue dogs, radio communication, helicopter rescue and basic dog first aid.

A total grant of €7,200 was awarded by the Leonardo da Vinci Programme for the completion of this project. Moreover, the five volunteers were also joined by Tyco, Nero & Britney – the three rescue dogs whose air travel costs were sponsored by Air Malta.