Arson Sniffing Dog

The newest dog to join a fire prevention team is not a Dalmatian, but a black Labrador Retriever named Sadie, with the ability to detect arson.

Dogs noses are nearly 1000 times more sensitive than a human’s. Sadie puts her sensitive smell to good use, by helping to solve arson related crimes in Arizona. Sometimes Sadie will sniff through the rubble leftover from a fire, looking for traces of gasoline, lighter fluid or other substances that may indicate arson. Often when arson is suspected within a short period of time, prior to a fire, Sadie will sniff the suspects arms and hands, letting police know if she smells something suspicious. Sadie was rescued after she was found tethered outside a barn. Since joining the police force last year, she has helped to catch nearly 40 arsonists.

The police of Arizona are grateful to Sadie for her wonderful abilities and affectionate nature. They are especially grateful to the officer who rescued Sadie.