Two police forces have collaborated to establish a dog team focused on identifying individuals involved in spiking. Thames Valley Police and Hampshire police state that these specially trained dogs will help safeguard students in the region's university cities.
The six canines, named Maverick, Puma, Dusty, AJ, Reggie, and Major, are capable of detecting drugs associated with spiking, even when carried in small amounts or liquid form. PC Dan Honey, a dog-handler, noted that identifying potential offenders in spiking incidents can be challenging, as they can blend in with others.
PC Honey explained that the dogs provide a proactive indication when a person is carrying something of interest to the police, making offenders less anonymous. Thames Valley Police indicated that while spiking incidents in the region remain low, prevention is considered as crucial as enforcement.
This joint campaign with Hampshire police coincides with the beginning of the university term, a period when freshers start socialising in new cities. Campaigner Sharon Gaffka, who previously shared her experience of being spiked, welcomed the initiative, stating it would be reassuring to know sniffer dogs could help keep people safe.