Project Rhino K9-Unit
To support highly trained anti-poaching dogs and their handlers in patrols, tracking and investigations, safeguarding rhinos and other endangered species across KwaZulu-Natal.
Highly trained canine support on the frontline
With their extraordinary sense of smell, speed and tracking abilities, these specially trained dogs help detect wildlife products, track poachers, recover weapons and protect endangered species.
Since launching in 2017, the Project Rhino K9-Unit has played a pivotal role in disrupting criminal and poaching operations across KwaZulu-Natal. Working alongside landowners, conservation agencies, security teams and the South African Police Service, the dogs have assisted in numerous arrests, wildlife crime investigations and even high-value recoveries, including narcotics and counterfeit goods worth over USD 4 million.
Specialist dogs, skilled handlers and daily field operations
The K9-Unit combines training, deterrence and collaboration to strengthen anti-poaching work across multiple reserves every month.
Specialist training
Dogs are trained and certified for tracking, detection and apprehension, making them critical assets in locating poachers and gathering real-time intelligence.
Diverse skills
Dogs assist in tracking suspects, detecting wildlife products, recovering illegal weapons and investigating crime scenes.
Daily operations
K9 teams conduct foot and vehicle patrols, fence inspections, checkpoint operations, snare removal, bushmeat poacher interventions and human-wildlife conflict mitigation.
Visible deterrent
Their presence discourages criminal activity and enhances safety for wildlife, staff and protected areas.
Multi-agency collaboration
The K9-Unit works with landowners, ecotourism businesses, security groups, private reserves and the South African Police Service to combat wildlife crime.
Wide-reaching impact
K9-Units typically operate across 12 different game reserves every month, extending their value well beyond a single site.
What your support helps fund
Your support keeps our K9 heroes in the field and directly contributes to protecting endangered wildlife.
Stand behind our K9 heroes
Every contribution helps keep these highly trained teams active, equipped and ready to respond.
Donate or fundraise
Support the dogs, handlers, equipment and operational needs that keep the unit effective in the field.
Spread the word
Follow and share Project Rhino updates on social media to help raise awareness and grow support.
Corporate involvement
Sponsor a K9, provide equipment or fund training to make a lasting impact in wildlife protection.
Help keep our K9 teams ready for action.
With the right support, these remarkable dogs and their handlers can continue protecting wildlife across KwaZulu-Natal.