Emirates SkyCargo has partnered with UK-based charity Dogs 4 Wildlife to transport specially trained conservation dogs to southern Africa as part of efforts to combat poaching and protect endangered wildlife, the Dubai-based airline said in a press release issued on Thursday.

Under the first phase of the initiative, two Belgian Malinois dogs trained in human scent tracking will be flown from London to Harare via Dubai later this month and deployed at Zimbabwe's Matusadona National Park to assist wildlife rangers in anti-poaching operations.

The partnership expands Emirates' broader wildlife protection initiatives and reinforces its longstanding commitment to combat illegal wildlife trafficking.

The two dogs, Vega and Kuda, have been trained by Dogs 4 Wildlife, a UK charity that deploys specialist conservation dogs across Africa to support wildlife conservation programmes. According to Emirates, the dogs were selected for their tracking abilities, determination and suitability for field operations.

Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo division of Emirates, said it would provide transportation through its specialist live animal services, which include dedicated handling procedures, purpose-built facilities and trained personnel across its global network.

"Protecting wildlife is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration, innovation, and long-term commitment," said Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo.

He said the partnership would support conservation initiatives by deploying highly trained dogs that would play a vital role in protecting endangered species and strengthening efforts on the ground.

Darren Priddle, founder and volunteer trustee of Dogs 4 Wildlife, said the deployment represented "far more than the transportation of two animals" and would deliver specialist conservation capabilities to support frontline wildlife rangers.

"Our mission is to protect endangered species by providing highly trained conservation dogs and supporting the dedicated people who work tirelessly to safeguard wildlife every day," Priddle said.

Emirates said the initiative aligns with its zero-tolerance policy towards illegal wildlife trade. The airline has banned the transportation of hunting trophies through its cargo division and works with governments, industry partners and conservation groups to prevent the movement of illicit wildlife products.

The carrier said it has trained more than 46,000 employees to identify and respond to potential wildlife trafficking risks since launching its awareness programme. Emirates also holds the International Air Transport Association's Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) certification, which includes standards related to wildlife protection.

Emirates, a founding signatory of the declaration, said it would continue supporting industry-wide efforts to tackle wildlife trafficking through partnerships with conservation organisations and other stakeholders.

Source: PR