Taffy, a nearly three-year-old golden retriever, has become an invaluable asset to the Saskatchewan Internet Child Exploitation Unit, combining specialized detection skills with a comforting presence. This lovable canine was trained to sniff out triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO), a chemical commonly used in hard drives, smartphones, USB drives, and SD cards to prevent overheating.
From Guide Dog Candidate to Electronic Detective
Originally on the path to becoming a guide dog, Taffy found the harness work unsuitable for her nature. Her handler, Detective Sergeant Bryon Sommacal, explained that attending an electronic storage detection program became a natural second option. Taffy received her specialized scent training in Indianapolis through the Jordan Detection K9 Electronic Storage Detection program.
A Vital Tool in Combating Child Exploitation
The soft-coated pup now serves as an integral part of the team's search toolkit, often searching large properties for hidden electronics that may contain exploitative material. Taffy represents the first dog in Saskatchewan and one of only nine in Canada with these specific detection capabilities.
"Child exploitation is a major, major part of society right now," Sommacal emphasized. "To have this as another component of our search abilities, and to make sure that we don't miss anything that might be the extra bit of evidence that puts somebody away for a little bit longer, or just maybe leads to something else, then I think electronic storage detection dogs are going to be an amazing part of this."
Dual Role: Detection and Emotional Support
Beyond her detection work, Taffy serves as a support dog for both crime victims and Saskatoon Police Service members. With wide eyes, a calm demeanor, and a habit of burrowing her face in laps for affection, she provides comfort during difficult investigations.
"We had an investigation just over a month ago where it turned into a hands-on investigation, and the child victim was brought in for an interview, and Taffy was able to sit there with her," Sommacal shared, highlighting the dog's therapeutic value.
Partnership with OUR Rescue
Taffy was provided to the Saskatoon Police Service at no cost by the non-profit organization OUR Rescue, which is dedicated to helping law enforcement fight against sex trafficking and child exploitation. After a colleague learned about OUR Rescue's scent dog program at a conference, Sommacal decided to become a handler.
In the process, he gained a new family member who has meshed well with his wife and three university-aged children. Having owned golden retrievers in the past made the partnership particularly appealing.
Life Beyond the Badge
When not working, Taffy enjoys a typical canine home life. "Depends on what mood she's in. Yeah, she's typically on the foot of the bed," admitted Sommacal, describing their domestic routine. This balance between serious police work and affectionate companionship makes Taffy a unique and valuable member of both the police force and the Sommacal household.
