Rehabilitation for explosive detection dog Lux

As a company, we pride ourselves on having consistent, excellent standards and processes – it’s #TheSafeLaneWay.  When it comes to our canine services, that doesn’t just extend to the skills of the dogs - which are industry leading - but also to the care they receive.  

At SafeLane, our working dogs are just as much a part of the team as their human colleagues.

All our handlers have incredibly close bonds with their dogs, this helps ensure their work is of the highest standard and both parties are happy.  Due to this bond, if a dog isn’t quite themselves, their handler will immediately pick up on it. 

SafeLane also has strict processes to ensure that the health and welfare of our dogs is regularly checked, and any concerns are communicated rapidly.  Last year, explosive detection dog (EDD) Lux’s handler noticed he was walking stiffly and instantly reported this.

EDD Lux is flown to South Africa for treatment  

Lux was assessed on project and it was decided by the vet and Operations Manager Mark Craig that he needed to be flown to the dog school in South Africa for treatment.  Here, a detailed assessment could be provided, and dog school General Manager Talitha could work with vets to create a rehabilitation plan.

The operation

Due to the issues with Lux’s mobility, it was determined that he would need an operation.  The purpose of this was to ensure that he was not in pain and could enjoy a good quality of life.

After Lux had recovered from the operation, a new schedule was determined to help increase his strength and enable his full recovery. 

Regular hydrotherapy and gentle daily walks are all helping ensure that Lux is gaining strength and getting the right amount of exercise.  His condition is being monitored daily.

Since rehabilitation began, there has been a significant overall improvement to Lux’s condition.  The imbalance in his legs has improved drastically and he is well on the road to a full recovery.

Rehabilitation is always about what’s best for the dog

If a dog requires rehabilitation, for whatever reason, the outcome of this process is always centred around doing what is in the best interest of the dog. 

The team always hopes to get a dog back out with their handler on project, but ultimately the rehabilitation process is about ensuring quality of life and lack of pain.  If that means early retirement, so be it.

In Lux's case, it’s too early to tell the outcome yet.  Lux may be deemed fit enough to return to the project or he may need to retire.  If this is the case, the team in South Africa will find Lux his forever home.

Watch this space for more updates on Lux’s condition and the ultimate verdict about the best next steps.

#TheSafeLane way extends beyond exceptional service delivery to include the welfare of all staff – human and canine!

As a company, we pride ourselves on having consistent, excellent standards and processes – it’s #TheSafeLaneWay.  When it comes to our canine services, that doesn’t just extend to the skills of the dogs - which are industry leading - but also to the care they receive.