In an unexpected twist, it was revealed that the Home Office has been sending its staff on Swedish dog massage courses, sparking controversy over government spending.
Nearly £1,000 was spent on these unusual lessons last September, aimed at ensuring that sniffer dogs receive proper care and attention.
The initiative comes as part of efforts to keep the dogs in peak condition for their essential work at UK borders, where they’re tasked with detecting drugs and contraband.
But not all MPs are on board with these spending decisions, especially when it comes to pricey dog massages.
Spending on Dog Enrichment Raises Eyebrows
Along with the Swedish massage courses, the Home Office has been purchasing various dog enrichment items.
For example, £574.70 was spent in April on puzzles and sand for play pits to keep the dogs entertained.
Transparency logs also reveal other expenses, such as a £706.81 purchase last May, which included items like paddling pools and sandpit lids.
These details come after ministers ordered a crackdown on Whitehall departments’ spending habits, with an emphasis on making sure taxpayers’ money is spent more wisely.
The Swedish Dog Massage Course Breakdown
The Swedish dog massage courses are held either in Worcestershire, Herefordshire, or even online, costing between £138 and £192 per person. A total of £966 was spent on these sessions in September.
During the course, participants are taught how to give a full-body, 40-minute Swedish massage to help relieve the dogs of stiff, sore muscles and improve their overall wellbeing.
The courses are designed to ensure that the dogs, who work hard to protect the UK from smuggling and trafficking, are physically comfortable and in good health to perform their duties effectively.
Political Backlash and Support for the Dogs
Tory MP Greg Smith didn’t mince words in his criticism, questioning the value of such spending for civil servants.
“I am utterly lost at what a Swedish dog massage course could possibly do to help that mission,” he said. “Perhaps I am missing something, but I doubt it.”
However, a government spokesperson quickly defended the expenditure, stating, “Our Border Force dogs do an outstanding job every day, helping to detect billions of pounds worth of drugs and uncovering evidence that leads to criminals being put behind bars.”
They made it clear that keeping the dogs in top condition was a priority, adding that anyone criticizing this spending is “barking up the wrong tree.”