Dutch create animal police

The Dutch government has said the country's first animal police officers are about to begin training to enforce laws protecting pets, livestock and wildlife against abuse.

The 125 officers, drawn from the regular police force, will receive several months of training.

They are expected to begin work in October, when a new emergency telephone number will also go into operation for the public to report animal mistreatment.

The Netherlands is the first country to have an animal rights party in parliament.