Police in Peru launch dedicated patrol to rescue and rehome stray animals

Police in Peru have launched a special division of their Traffic Unit dedicated to rescuing stray animals from a life on the streets.

The Squad Orejitas - which translates as 'ears' - was founded by a group of female officers who funded the rescues from their own pockets.

The force's director of road safety and traffic, General Javier Avalos, said a total of 30 officers had now been recruited to the team, which operates on the roads of capital city Lima.

They have all been specially trained for the challenges of the role, he added.

Once rescued, the animals are taken to the nearest vet to be checked over, treated for any injuries or diseases, and often sterilised.

It was founded at first by a group of female officers who funded the rescues and treatment of the animals out of their own pockets, before gaining wider attention.

The Traffic Unit then organises the adoption of the animal. Since its launch earlier this year, it has already found new homes for 60 stray cats and dogs.

They have now been dubbed the "most respectable squad in Peru" by some citizens and media in the South American nation.