New Zealand: Animal protection group 'appalled at needless killing of dog'

An Aviation Security Services dog was shot dead by police after it was spooked and escaped its handler at Auckland International Airport Friday, causing runway delays. Police shot the dog, named Grizz, at the direction of Auckland Airport staff. "Auckland Airport staff directed police to shoot the Avsec dog, which was loose at the airport this morning," said Inspector Tracy Phillips. "This followed considerable efforts over several hours by Avsec and airport staff to contain the dog after it was first reported to be loose at 4am. "This is not an outcome anyone wanted, and police were only asked to be involved as a last resort." A source said police staff and Grizz's handler are "absolutely devastated". Richards said Avsec will now "try and ascertain what spooked the dog and if this has any implications for ongoing training". It is understood 16 domestic and international flights were delayed as ground staff tried to catch the animal after it broke away from its handler about 4am.<br/>