NZ Police has given an update on the condition of Police Dog ‘Teo’ who was injured while on duty in Rotorua last week.
SAR dog Teo and her handler, Senior Constable Adam, were supporting the search for a missing man in thermally active Waiotapu, Rotorua, when soft ground gave way under Teo, causing her to fall into scalding water below.
“Adam immediately pulled her out and she was taken to the Massey University Veterinary Hospital in Palmerston North,” Police said in a statement.
“She underwent surgery to burns, mainly on her hindquarters, on Monday and the prognosis is said to be good. Due to the nature of the terrain, Teo had been wearing protective booties, preventing severe burns to the pads on her feet.”
Police say Constable Adam, who suffered minor burns while pulling Teo out of the water, has been by her side at the hospital.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers and Inspector Todd Southall (National Coordinator Police Dogs), visited Teo, Adam and the Massey team on Monday.
“Shes making good recovery but it will be a long road. While we are hopeful for her recovery, our thoughts are with the family of the missing man as the search continues,” said Inspector Southall.
