Grouse, a springer spaniel rescued by Blue Cross pet charity, embarks on a new career this week when he arrives in the capital to become an explosive detection dog at London 2012 Olympic Games.

Fourteen month old Grouse was brought into the charity’s rehoming centre in Kimpton, Hertfordshire last year as a stray so very little is known about his past. Staff at the centre were impressed with his intelligence and inquisitive nature so introduced him to Malpeet K9 Academy in South Wales as a likely candidate.

After initial assessment from Simon Mallin at Malpeet K9 Academy, Grouse began a demanding training course which included scenarios searching everything from cinemas to vehicles. Grouse was accessed by the Metropolitan Police three times and passed with the highest grade.

Lynda Campbell, Blue Cross centre manager at Kimpton said, ”We were so proud to hear that Grouse had qualified. When he arrived at the centre it was clear that he was a very intelligent dog who needed new challenges so I’m sure he’ll thrive in his new role. Many animals come to Blue Cross looking for a second chance in life so it is always wonderful when they go on to realise their full potential.”

Simon Mallin, Managing Director Malpeet K9 Academy said, “I was delighted when Blue Cross contacted us. We travel all over the UK assessing potential dogs and we find many are not suitable for this kind of work. However after only a few minutes of playing with Grouse I knew he had exactly what I was looking for. All the training is based on play reward with a tennis ball or such like so as far as the dogs are concerned every time they go to work it’s yet another fun game with or Mum or Dad. These dogs do an incredible job helping to keep us safe”