Dubai – Emirates SkyCargo has partnered with Dogs 4 Wildlife, a UK charity focused on protecting endangered species in Africa by using trained conservation dogs.
As part of the first phase of this partnership, Emirates SkyCargo will transport these dogs from the UK to Southern Africa, where they will aid wildlife park rangers in tracking poachers and enhancing conservation efforts.
The initial pair of dogs, Vega and Kuda, are Belgian Malinois specially trained by Dogs 4 Wildlife for conservation work.
Vega and Kuda were selected for their exceptional drive, determination, and natural tracking abilities to establish a new K9 unit for wildlife protection in Zimbabwe.
The dogs are expected to fly from London to Harare via Dubai at the end of June, with plans to deploy them in Zimbabwe’s Matusadona National Park upon their arrival.
Animal Transportation with a Focus on Welfare
Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo arm of Emirates, facilitates the transport of goods for businesses across its extensive global network.
The airline provides specialized live animal transportation services, ensuring reliable and welfare-focused solutions for animal transit.
This is supported by dedicated handling procedures, specially designed facilities, and trained professionals across its international reach.
Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, stated, “Conserving wildlife is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration, innovation, and a long-term commitment.
“We are delighted to partner with Dogs 4 Wildlife, facilitating the deployment of highly trained conservation dogs such as Vega and Kuda in various conservation projects.
“These dogs will play a vital role in protecting endangered species and strengthening on-site conservation efforts.
“This collaboration epitomizes Emirates SkyCargo’s broader commitment to fighting illegal wildlife trade and supporting initiatives that make a significant impact on wildlife and communities globally.”
Darren Priddle, Founder and Volunteer Trustee of Dogs 4 Wildlife, commented, “We are incredibly proud to collaborate with Emirates SkyCargo on this vital initiative.
“The introduction of conservation dogs like Vega and Kuda represents much more than just moving two animals; it signifies the mobilization of specialized conservation skills that will provide direct support to wildlife rangers working on the ground.
“At Dogs 4 Wildlife, our aim is to protect endangered species by providing highly trained conservation dogs and supporting the dedicated personnel who work tirelessly for wildlife safety every day.
“With the support of a global organization like Emirates, we can enhance our impact and deliver effective conservation tools to areas where they are urgently needed.
“This partnership illustrates the achievements possible when diverse organizations unite with a common purpose of preserving wildlife for future generations.”
A Commitment to Wildlife Conservation
The collaboration between Emirates SkyCargo and Dogs 4 Wildlife aligns closely with Emirates’ long-standing dedication to wildlife conservation (https://apo-opa.co/4xAn0tp).
The airline maintains a zero-tolerance approach toward illegal wildlife trading, which includes the prohibition of transporting hunting trophies (https://apo-opa.co/4emw0te).
Emirates SkyCargo also implements thorough screening protocols and collaborates with industry partners, government agencies, and conservation organizations to prevent the illicit movement of wildlife products across global supply chains.
Since launching its illegal wildlife trade awareness program, Emirates has trained over 46,000 employees within the organization, empowering frontline teams to identify, report, and respond to potential wildlife trafficking threats.
Furthermore, Emirates has received IATA’s Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) certification, which includes a specific wildlife module that aligns with the Buckingham Palace Declaration.
This announcement coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Buckingham Palace Declaration in the industry and conservation communities, as well as the United for Wildlife High-Level Business Forum held in London, highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration in combating illegal wildlife trade and protecting endangered species for future generations.
Emirates has been an active participant in United for Wildlife since signing the Declaration as a founding member and continues to support industry-wide initiatives against wildlife trafficking.
