Protecting Taiwan's Canine Heroes: Lawmakers Push for Insurance for Working Dogs

Efforts Underway to Secure Coverage for Taiwan's Search and Rescue, Detection, and Law Enforcement Dogs.

Taipei, Taiwan – In a move to recognize and protect the invaluable service of Taiwan's working dogs, several lawmakers have initiated a call for insurance coverage. These dedicated canines, integral to various government agencies, are involved in high-risk tasks that include search and rescue, detection, and law enforcement.

DPP lawmaker Wu Pei-yi (吳沛憶) highlighted the crucial role these dogs play, emphasizing their service to the country. Unlike pet dogs, for whom insurance is readily available, working dogs currently lack such protection, leaving them vulnerable to financial burdens related to sickness or injuries sustained on duty.

Data from the Ministry of Agriculture's (MOA) Department of Animal Welfare reveals that Taiwan currently has 252 government working dogs across various departments. These dogs are deployed for critical operations, including search and rescue missions, patrol duties, and the detection of explosives, drugs, and tobacco.

Joining Wu in the call for action, other DPP lawmakers are urging for "coordinated efforts" between the MOA and the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) to expedite discussions with private insurance firms. The goal is to develop comprehensive coverage plans that protect working dogs throughout their training, active service, and even into retirement.

Chen Chung-hsing (陳中興), Deputy Head of the MOA's Department of Animal Welfare, confirmed that talks with private insurers began on March 26, signaling progress towards this important goal. However, a specific timeline for the negotiations remains unclear.

Elly Huang (黃家莉), Manager of the Consumer Insurance section at Nan Shan General Insurance Co., Ltd., the only insurer to have shown an interest so far, acknowledged the process would require time for assessment and product development.

Wang Chi-hua (王綺華), an official from FSC's Insurance Bureau, pointed out challenges including the relatively small population size of working dogs and the diverse nature of their tasks, which complicates the development of insurance plans.

Meanwhile, DPP lawmaker Lee Kuen-cheng (李坤城) suggested exploring the possibility of government-sponsored insurance programs for working dogs, providing an alternative approach to securing the necessary protections.