Meet the Tango K9 Anti-Poaching Unit and the Extraordinary Dogs Protecting Africa's Unique Wildlife
Conversations with Canine Conservation Champions
Tango K9 operates within Thornybush Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park. This dedicated anti-poaching unit of specially trained dogs protects endangered species and Africa’s wildlife, detecting illegal wildlife contraband, firearms, and ammunition.
As a result of the global Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on South Africa’s tourism industry, the funding for Tango K9's anti-poaching unit has severely diminished. To offer support CHOMMIES has collaborated with Tango K9 to create a custom, extra-long slip-on training leash that is being used by the unit and their dogs in the bush. The specific tailored design of these leashes is also apt for everyday dog owners looking to make dog training easier. As part of our Chommies for life* program, all profits from the sale of these leashes go directly to support Tango K9’s vital work.
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Ever wondered what it’s like to be one of the unsung heroes of wildlife conservation? Today, we’re stepping into the paws of Mina, one of Tango K9’s extraordinary canines, to get a glimpse of their world. These remarkable dogs are on the front lines in the fight against poaching, using their incredible senses to protect Africa’s most vulnerable wildlife. In this exclusive interview, we’ll uncover what makes these dogs so special, how they train for their vital work, and what a day in their life looks like.
What’s your favourite part of the job, and why do you love working with your handler?
Mina: My favourite part? Definitely bite work—it feels as natural as breathing to me. But I also love the thrill of patrolling and following a scent trail. My handler completely understands me and knows exactly how to read my signals, which makes us an awesome team!
Can you tell us about a time you felt particularly proud of your work?
Mina: I felt really proud when I nailed my detection training. Finally, everything clicked, and I understood exactly what my handler wanted from me.
What’s your favourite training exercise or game, and how does it help you on missions?
Mina: Detection work! Heading into the training grounds is always exciting because they make it fun for me to find the scent. Plus, I get rewarded with food or my favourite ball—who could say no to that? I’m all about the free snacks, so I’m eager to sniff out that contraband and earn my treat!
How do you relax and have fun when you're not on duty?
Mina: When I’m off duty, I love lounging on my pillow at home, sniffing out any treats my handler might have hidden. I also enjoy playing with the other bloodhounds in our unit. We have our own space where we can unwind, let loose, and take naps—naps are the best.
What’s one thing you wish people understood about the work you do?
Mina: It’s not as easy as it looks. It takes a lot of hard work and training. We’re not just pets— we’re here to do a job, and we take it seriously.
How do you communicate with your handler during missions?
Mina: My handler reads my body language— my ears, tail, everything. We have this understanding; sometimes, a quick glance is all it takes for him to know I’m on the right track.
What’s the most challenging scent you’ve ever had to track, and how did you do it?
Mina: Tracking on a hot, windy day is really challenging—the scent gets all mixed up. But I’m made for this! I trust my handler, and he trusts me, so together, we always get the job done.
Do you have any special tricks or skills that set you apart from the other dogs?
Mina: I’m a fast learner with strong skills in tracking, detection, and bite work. But what sets me apart is my calm side—I love giving hugs and headbutts, especially when someone needs a bit of extra comfort.
What kind of rewards or treats do you like best after a successful mission?
Mina: Biltong, definitely. It’s the perfect treat after a long day.
If you could talk to humans, what would you say about the importance of protecting wildlife?
Mina: Protecting wildlife isn’t just about saving animals; it’s about ensuring a healthy planet for future generations. Every life we protect contributes to a better world.
