Written by the Wildlife in Trade Programme – Endangered Wildlife Trust
Photography by Lesoba Difference and the Endangered Wildlife Trust
Strong, highly trained, and effective. The Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Conservation Canines are at the forefront of the fight against the illegal wildlife trade (IWT). And humans and wildlife alike benefit from the critical roles they play in the EWT’s work. While you may not think it to look at him, this dog didn’t have an easy start in life.
This story is about a unique dog who, from the day he was born, fought against all odds to become one of these canine heroes…
Super survivor
Pirate, a Belgian Malinois turning four in August this year, had a heart-breaking start in life. The little pup was found abandoned at less than ten weeks old, with a broken leg and battling Parvovirus – a deadly and highly contagious disease that had already taken the lives of all of his siblings.
When he was found weak from illness and in pain, Pirate’s caring veterinarian adopted him, recognising in him the fighting spirit and enthusiasm of a Conservation Canine.
Pirate survived his illness and his leg healed, leaving him with only a slight limp and the name fondly given to him because of it. When he started his training, Pirate took to obedience and detection work with vigour, but it was during tracking exercises that he came alive. With enthusiasm that shines in his eyes and puts a tremble in his tail, laser-like focus, and natural ability, it was clear that this was what he was born to do.
Put to the test
In March 2021, only a couple of years after his shaky start, Pirate and his handler, Shay Seebran, were put to the test to qualify as a certified tracking team. The 2.5km assessment track was longer and the scent older than any Pirate had followed before, yet he forged ahead through the rugged terrain and gave a clear proximity alert to signal he’d found his quarry about 50 metres before the end of the track.
Victorious, Pirate and Shay qualified and have been on the “right track” ever since.
Bravery in action
Pirate is full of mischief, but some would say he’s the most popular canine at our Conservation Campus. He doesn’t just have a good nose. He tests people he hasn’t met before by nibbling on their sleeves to see how friendly they are – talk about putting his senses to good use!
We’re so proud of our brave “underdog” for coming out on top, despite the physical challenges he overcame as a pup. He inspires us all to take hurdles in our stride and keep fighting the good fight against the illegal wildlife trade.
To support Pirate and his teammates and their vital work, please contact the EWT’s Wildlife in Trade Programme Manager, Dr Andrew Taylor, at andrewt@ewt.org.za
Donate to the EWT here (reference: canine) or scan the QR code:
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