Wrexham’s Award-Winning Spaniel Leads the Fight Against Wildlife Crime

A remarkable Springer Spaniel, Henry, has gained international recognition for his efforts in combatting wildlife crime. This 10-year-old dog was awarded “Animal of the Year” by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). His training and dedication have made significant strides in deterring wildlife crime.

Henry’s Journey from “Lost Soul” to Wildlife Hero

Henry was rescued in Wrexham by Louise Wilson of Conservation K9 Consultancy when he was just eight months old. Initially deemed too energetic, he was rejected by five families before finding a purpose in wildlife conservation.

A Unique Skill Set

Henry now excels at detecting seven different scents, including prey birds and small mammals. His abilities are critical in assisting law enforcement agencies to investigate wildlife offenses. He can locate not only bird carcasses but also monitoring tags that are vital for tracking wildlife populations.

Supporting Law Enforcement and Conservation Efforts

Although not a traditional police dog, Henry has proven invaluable to the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU). Detective Inspector Mark Harrison emphasized the importance of Henry’s skills, stating that his findings directly aid in evidence collection. Without Henry’s discoveries, many investigations would stall. His recent work included recovering a bird’s skull from concealed terrain, showcasing his impressive capability.

Beyond Crime Detection

Henry’s role extends beyond assisting police; he also engages in ecological monitoring. He helps track various species, such as:

• Hedgehogs
• Pine martens
• Otters
• Water voles

Louise Wilson highlighted Henry’s potential, noting that his strong spirit and exuberance make him an ideal detection dog. With focused training, his wild energy became an asset, enabling him to perform conservation work effectively.

Acknowledgment at the Animal Action Awards

Henry’s efforts were celebrated at the 25th Animal Action Awards held in London, where he received his honor from TV presenter Michaela Strachan. She praised the dedication required to train such a skilled dog, recognizing both Henry and Louise as a formidable duo in wildlife protection.

As wildlife crimes continue to threaten various species, Henry’s story exemplifies the crucial role of dedicated animals and their trainers in conservation efforts. His recognition underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in preserving wildlife and deterring crime.