As families across Northern Ireland gather around twinkling trees and laden tables this Christmas, a dedicated cohort of four-legged professionals is quietly clocking in, their work as vital as ever. While most people are enjoying a well-earned break, Northern Ireland’s working dogs—ranging from police K9s and search and rescue teams to medical alert companions and farmhands—remain steadfastly on duty, ensuring the safety, health, and well-being of their communities.
For some, like Lucia Kane, 17, from Crumlin, County Antrim, the holidays can be a challenging time. The festive bustle, with its extra lights, sounds, and crowds, can feel overwhelming—especially for someone living with autism and Tourette syndrome. Lucia’s constant support comes in the form of Jojo, a seven-year-old black Labrador trained by Assistance Dogs NI. Jojo’s presence is more than comforting; she is Lucia’s lifeline. When stress or anxiety spikes, Jojo responds by lying close or even across Lucia, offering a calming, grounding presence. “I really do love her, she’s one of my best friends,” Lucia told BBC News NI.
Jojo’s impact on the Kane family cannot be overstated. Lucia’s mother, Elizabeth Kane, recalled how Jojo transformed her daughter’s life since joining them five years ago. “She gives Lucia confidence and helps her talk to people. Her presence de-stresses any situation one million percent,” Elizabeth said. The importance of Jojo’s role was especially clear recently, when the Labrador survived a serious illness after swallowing a stone—a harrowing ordeal that left Lucia distraught and sleepless until Jojo recovered. This Christmas, the family is celebrating Jojo’s health with extra gifts and, yes, plenty of turkey and ham. “Lucia will wrap her presents and Jojo will open them herself. There will be extra gifts this year—and definitely turkey and ham on Christmas Day,” Elizabeth shared.
Jojo is just one of many working dogs across Northern Ireland whose duties don’t pause for the holidays. Police K9 units, for instance, see their responsibilities ramp up during the festive season. In Londonderry, police dogs Igi and Kodi are on call this Christmas, ready to tackle whatever the holidays bring. “Unfortunately both Kodi and Igi will be on duty this Christmas Day,” Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Inspector Neil Harrison told BBC News NI. While a few rest days will follow, the work comes first.
Igi, a German Shepherd, serves as a general police patrol dog, attending a variety of incidents—anything from crowd control to searching for missing persons. “There is a lot more socialising and we see nightlife increase—and it is great to see—but, unfortunately, it does come with an increase in some anti-social behaviour, falling out amongst people and drink/drug driving,” Inspector Harrison explained. Sometimes, “a few choice barks” or “a stern look from the big fella” is all it takes to de-escalate a tense situation. Igi’s keen nose and tracking skills can also be critical in searching for missing individuals, providing hope and relief to families in crisis. “Those who need a little help are often glad to be found by a police dog,” Harrison said.
Kodi, a cocker spaniel and one of PSNI’s newest search dogs, thrives on her work—her favorite game is finding hidden items, whether that means drugs, weapons, or other contraband. “Kodi is busy all year round helping the PSNI with our efforts to remove these items from criminals and locate drugs before they get into the communities,” Harrison added. When their shifts are over, both dogs—like their handlers—look forward to some well-deserved rest and a taste of the holiday spirit at home.
The value of working dogs extends far beyond law enforcement. Volunteer search and rescue dog teams are a crucial lifeline, especially in Northern Ireland’s rural and mountainous regions. These teams are on standby year-round, braving harsh weather and difficult terrain to locate missing or injured individuals. Their dedication is unwavering, with regular training ensuring they’re always ready for an emergency call—even on Christmas Day, when the risk of accidents and disappearances remains high.
Some working dogs provide a different kind of life-saving service. Medical alert dogs are trained to detect subtle physiological changes in their human partners—like dangerous drops or spikes in blood sugar for diabetics or the onset of an epileptic seizure. Their vigilance can mean the difference between safety and crisis, especially during the holidays when medical help might be delayed. These silent guardians offer peace of mind and independence, their bond with their handlers built on trust, training, and an extraordinary sensory ability that goes far beyond human perception.
At Northern Ireland’s airports, security dogs are on the front lines, protecting borders and keeping travelers safe during the busiest travel days of the year. Trained to detect narcotics, firearms, and even agricultural products that could pose biosecurity risks, these dogs are an integral part of the nation’s security protocols. Their presence is particularly crucial when passenger numbers surge, as they help ensure that illicit items don’t slip through the cracks.
On the farms of County Londonderry, Christmas Day is just another workday for sheepdog Bowie—a collie and Australian Kelpie mix—and his canine colleagues. Farmer Thomas Conway relies on Bowie, along with springer spaniels Bob, Lala, George, and Flo, to manage livestock and keep the farm running smoothly. “You couldn’t run a farm without a good sheepdog. That goes for all year round, a good sheepdog is worth 10 people on the farm,” Thomas told BBC News NI. Even on Christmas, the rounds must be done, and Bowie and George accompany Thomas as he checks the sheep and cattle. The springer spaniels, meanwhile, will be busy again on Boxing Day, working at a local shoot. But don’t worry—these hardworking dogs are rewarded with extra feeds and treats, including turkey, ham, stuffing, and the odd bone or two. “They’ll get two feeds on Christmas Day, there will be turkey and ham, and the stuffing and some of the bones, they’ll be mad about that,” Thomas said.
The excellence of Northern Ireland’s working dogs is no accident. Their impressive skills are the result of intensive, ongoing training that starts early and continues throughout their careers. Specialized breeding programs select dogs with the right temperament and drive, while their handlers undergo extensive training to build effective communication and trust. This partnership—rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose—enables these teams to perform under pressure, whether it’s a crowded city street, a remote mountainside, or a bustling airport terminal.
The communities these dogs serve are keenly aware of their contributions. Public awareness campaigns and demonstrations highlight the vital roles working dogs play, fostering appreciation and respect for these canine heroes and their handlers. Their tireless efforts ensure that essential services and safety continue uninterrupted, no matter what the calendar says.
While most of us celebrate and relax, Northern Ireland’s working dogs and their handlers remain quietly at work, their dedication a testament to the enduring partnership between humans and animals. Come rain, shine, or Christmas morning, these remarkable dogs are always ready to answer the call.
