Leuka Clinic: Alicante's heartfelt heroes for Policía Nacional dogs over 15 years
Round-the-clock love and loyalty keep canine heroes in top shape
Hidden in Alicante's cosy Los Ángeles neighbourhood, Leuka Veterinary Centre has been the devoted partner of the Policía Nacional's Canine Unit for a full 15 years now. These wonderful folks are always there, day or night, even opening at 3am for an emergency, caring for brave dogs that sniff out explosives, drugs, weapons, and more, with the kind of warmth that turns colleagues into family.It started back in July 2010, when the unit launched with four officers and six special pups: Atila, Dax, Bleky, Lord, Fosca, and Fido. No official vet in sight, so founder José Riolobos answered the call for those first check-ups. What began as simple visits grew into something truly special. Now Anna, his daughter, runs the show, carrying that same big heart. "We started all this with your father," the handlers often say to her with a smile, sharing tales from the early days.
Think heartwarming saves like rushing a dog into surgery after it swallowed a cap, or piecing Tuba's broken femur back together with plates and screws after a tough training fall at Alicante-Elche Airport. Day to day, it's loving check-ups, joint care, and gentle support for these furry partners who give their all. The clinic's entrance greets you with Plato's touching words: "A man can measure the value of his own soul by the grateful look an animal gives him when he has helped it."
This year, the Policía Nacional gave Leuka a well-deserved award - not for one miracle moment, but for their everyday magic of skill, trust, and pure affection. From José's pioneering spirit to Anna's steady care, it's a beautiful story of generations looking out for each other, human and hound alike.In a world that moves fast, Leuka reminds us of the quiet joys in loyalty and second chances. If you're a dog lover, it warms the heart just thinking about it.
Images: automatic6517/Pixabay
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