Gardaí have recruited a new group of crimefighters to help keep the country's streets safe.
The four-legged officers will help replenish the ranks of the Garda Dog Unit.
The furry recruits-in-training are Thor, a male German Shepherd, Ógie, a female German Shepherd and RIP who is a Dutch Shepherd.
RIP is the first of his breed to join the canine unit.
RIP the Dutch Shepherd. Image: An Garda SíochánaAll three pups have been with their Garda handler since they were eight-weeks-old.
"At present they're being taught obedience while they become familiarised with the likely sights and experiences that they will encounter," Gardaí have said.
One of the newest Garda recruits. Image: An Garda Síochána"It is hoped that when their training is successfully completed in about a year and a half, they will search for missing people, identify suspects, search for concealed evidence, conduct crime prevention patrols and help Gardaí apprehend criminals."
The Garda Dog Unit was first established over 63 years ago, and has become an integral part of policing in Ireland.
One of the newest Garda recruits. Image: An Garda Síochána"Dogs can do what no human or technology can, by virtue of their powerful sense of smell," Gardaí explained.
It comes just days after veteran member Laser retired at the age of 80.
After a decade long career serving the people of Ireland, Laser hangs up his Garda harness this week and will retire in bliss at home in Cork with his best friend and handler, Garda Pat Harrington.
15/10 good boy! @dog_rates #KeepingPeopleSafe pic.twitter.com/sw4KVkoMoQ— Garda Info (@gardainfo) October 18, 2023
He joined the Garda Dog Unit back in late 2011 at just five-months-old.
He's had some stand out successes like sniffing out a €900,000 grow house, locating several burglars and recovering plenty of stolen goods.
Laser celebrates his last day of work. Image: An Garda SíochánaGardaí have said he will now spend his retirement playing with his favourite ball, as well as feasting on Rodeo dog treats and Dentastixs.
"There will be lots more much deserved lie-in's and playtime as he enjoys his 80's after a long and distinguished police career," it added.
