Slovenian police officers once again took part in the Animal Lovers Festival, held in Nova Gorica at the end of May. Visitors were able to learn more about police work, including the duties of police dog handlers and the mounted police unit. Many attendees followed the presentations with great interest and took the opportunity to engage with officers and find out more about their day-to-day work.
The Slovenian police are particularly pleased that, for the first time in the festival's history, a police officer was named the event's honorary guest. The recognition was awarded to Janez Tonejc of the Ljubljana Service Dog Handlers Police Station, who attended the festival accompanied by his three four-legged colleagues: Oro, a six year old German Shepherd, and Border Collies Neli and Sky.
A large audience attended an on-stage conversation with Janez Tonejc, hosted by actress Lara Komar, where he spoke about his work, his relationship with service dogs, and their role in ensuring public safety.
The conversation was followed by a live demonstration in which Janez Tonejc and his dogs impressed the audience with their seamless coordination, obedience, and mutual trust.
Visitor feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Many remarked that the organisers could not have chosen a more suitable festival ambassador, as Janez Tonejc, with his expertise, dedication to his work, and love for animals, perfectly embodies the values that the festival seeks to promote.
The Slovenian police are extremely proud of colleague Janez Tonejc. This recognition demonstrates that the work of police officers and their four-legged partners is appreciated not only within the police service but also by the wider public. It also serves as further encouragement for the Slovenian police in their ongoing efforts to ensure public safety.
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Foto: Cimet Studio