School to use dogs to sniff out drugs

We're more used to seeing sniffer dogs at airports than schools, but that could all change.

A Rotorua high school is to use dogs to sniff out illegal drugs.

Western Heights High School principal Violet Pelham-Waerea told parents in a school newsletter the move was about making sure the school was drug-free, the Rotorua Daily Post reported.

"I must emphasise that in no way does Western Heights High School have any kind of drug problem. We are merely choosing to be proactive rather than reactive in our strategy to prevent drugs entering the school gates," the newsletter said.

The school has employed a private Auckland firm Elite Dog Services for the inspections.

Managing director Paul Thom as said former police dog handlers and non-threatening dog breeds were used to sniff out drugs and explosives in schools, offices and factories.

- NZPA