Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 20 (IANS) Finally the Kerala police dog squad in the capital city has its own residence, including a state-of-the-art hospital.Inaugurating the Kerala police’s new building, State Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan Thursday said it has all facilities for the nine-member dog squad’s stay and regular treatment.

Balakrishnan was given a royal welcome by the dogs and he greeted each of the nine dogs with a salute.

The State Police Kennel has 53 dogs, of which nine are stationed here and the rest in the other 13 districts.

Senior Inspector General of Police Arun Kumar Sinha told IANS that the squad includes German Shepherds, Golden Retriever and Dobermans, which have proved very useful in police duties.

“Till now the dog squad was housed in a rented place which did not have enough space and facilities. The new building is quite big and has all facilities for the dogs, including for their play and exercise,” he said.