Are these dogs Earth's best friend?
Forget 'fetch'. Super-sniffer dogs play a key role in saving endangered plant, animal, insect and reptile species, protecting people, catching criminals and supporting important research.
06 April 2025 - 00:00
When Kisha heard “soek” (search), the malinois dog raced up and down a meadow sniffing for pangolin scales, before lying down in front of a pile of leaves under which they were buried on the Midrand campus of the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT). Another dog, Reaper, indicated a drawer in a desk with her nose during the demo: inside was a test tube smaller than a finger, with the scent of succulents that are being widely poached in South Affrica...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.
From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.
For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.
Already subscribed? Sign in below.
Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.