China's Public Security Ministry established its first team of rescue dogs in Shenyang early this year. The local fire brigade bought 10 specific police dogs in May, which were trained for rescue work at the newly-built base.

Although their training had not finished, these dogs successfully rescued missing workers buried at a collapsed building site on Aug. 21, said Li Jinhua, local fire brigade official.

After six months professional training, the dogs are considered competent to rescue people trapped in the ruins after a fire or a bomb blast.

The 10 dogs are expected to serve for six to eight years.

(Xinhua News Agency November 21, 2002)