Meet Hansel, a Pit Bull Rescued from a Dog Fighting Ring Who Now Serves as an Arson Detection K-9 Officer

Animal abuse is a serious issue that should not be tolerated. It is important to treat all living beings with kindness and respect. We believe that the world can be a better place through acts of compassion and empathy.

In an effort to inspire and uplift others, we would like to share the heartwarming story of Hansel, a pit bull who was given a second chance at life. Hansel’s story serves as a reminder that even in the face of cruelty, there are those who strive to show love and care for animals in need.

Hansel is a rescue dog who was originally rescued from a dog fighting ring in Tilbury, Canada. Along with over 30 other dogs, Hansel faced euthanasia due to Ontario’s ban on pit bulls.

However, thanks to the efforts of one man, Rob Scheinberg, the court reversed its decision and the dogs were tested for viability for adoption. Hansel was among the dogs sent to the non-profit organization “Dogs Playing for Life,” located in Florida, which aims to enhance the quality of life for shelter dogs and increase life-saving efforts.

From there, Hansel was adopted by the “Throw Away Dogs Project” in Philadelphia, where he received training to become a K-9 officer.

After completing his training, Hansel was placed with the Millville Fire Department, where he serves as an arson detection K-9 officer. Hansel is the first of his breed to hold this position, and he has proven to be an invaluable asset to the department.

Through his journey from rescue to K-9 officer, Hansel has gone from being saved from euthanasia to saving lives himself.

Did you know that Hansel also won the Law Enforcement and Detection Hero Dog 2021 award?

Does this look like a Pit Bull that isn’t playful enough?

Turns out when you give Hansel a nice big smile, he returns the favor.

Hansel is specifically trained to identify ignitable liquids, such as gasoline and diesel

After seeing the succes of Hansel, other fire departments have also expressed interest in taking in pit bulls as arson detection dogs

Pictured here and in other pics is Hansel’s best friend, his handler, and firefighter Tyler Van Leer

Tyler has revealed that the two are inseparable. 

All photos are via Instagram