Belgian Malinois clones will be guarding inmates in one of the prisons in Yakutia. The breed was developed and improved by South Korean scientists. Dog handlers claim that the shepherds have adjusted well to the harsh climate.
Natalya Goncharova has looked at the similarities between the dog and their prototype.
Tom and Jack, the two Belgian Malinois cloned in South Korea, successfully follow the orders of their handlers. A year ago, they entered service in Yakutia at the Russian Military-Historical Society. During this time they've adjusted to the harsh local climate.
Maksim Modenov, Dog Handler: "They got used to it. They are strong. Perfect for use in law enforcement".
The scientists from South Korea have cloned more than 1,000 Toms and Jacks. One dog like that costs around $100,000. Anyone can place an order.
Hwang Woo-suk, Professor at Sooam Biotech Research Foundation: "We've created clones that are real animals in every regard. It became possible thanks to a new method of storing genetic material which is very different from other methods. We've been working with many mammals".
Biological material for Tom and Jack was taken from the best specimens of the breed, the police dogs working with special forces.
Valery Chugunov, Dog Owner: "I've known this breed for a long time. And I know its qualities well. When I got these puppies, I offered them to our law enforcement, and here's why. First of all, this type of shepherd is meant for work in the police, and that's exactly how they are used in the U.S., Canada, and several European countries".
Some people believe that cloned dogs behave differently from the original animal. This theory was confirmed at the NC College of Veterinary Medicine. But so far, Tom and Jack haven’t caused any trouble. According to their handlers, the dogs are quick studies with a mild temper.
Natalya Goncharova. Vesti