Meet Taz: The Heroic Dog That Foiled an Attack

Taz is a remarkable dog raised by Sergeant First Class A. Cohen, a veteran border police officer and K9 handler in Jerusalem, from just three weeks old. At the age of one year and two months, Cohen recognized Taz's potential for the K9 unit. However, recruiting police dogs is usually a formal process handled by an official company responsible for their training. 

Sergeant First Class A. Cohen with his dog, Taz (photo: Police Spokesperson's Unit)

Nonetheless, in this case, the police decided to make an exception, allowing Taz to undertake the necessary tests. After passing them, Taz joined the unit as an explosive detection dog, quickly adapting to his new role: Last Friday, while scanning near the village of Issawiya, Taz identified a pipe bomb placed near a security checkpoint. "We started scanning, and Taz began behaving unusually," Cohen recalled. "A handler knows how to spot behavioral changes in the dog—be it a tail movement, upright ears, or more. The handler, closely connected to their dog, recognizes the signs when the dog senses something suspicious. I let him do what he knows best."

Taz with his trainer.

Taz began barking and guided Cohen to a small wall about a meter from the checkpoint, where they found the 'surprise.' An explosives team arrived quickly to secure the area and safely detonate the device. Needless to say, it was a great miracle, averting potential serious injuries. Thank Hashem. Cohen emphasizes the importance of the unit where he serves, stating, "We are a unit providing coverage for all of Jerusalem, at checkpoints in various locations. We've caught many things, from fireworks to this recent explosive. Terrorist or criminal elements often conceal explosives or drugs in drywall or underground, which is why employing dogs is crucial," he said. 

Cohen with Taz. Good friends