Touching police dogs

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Q: We are a group of Saudi youth working in the Saudi Customs using police dogs to detect drugs and explosives. The nature of our work requires that we have to touch and deal with dogs. Dogs' saliva also comes on our clothes and hands, and so does their hair.Please bear in mind that these dogs receive constant medical treatment, hygiene, and special food. However, we do not know the ruling on dealing with dogs. There is a Hadith reported from the Messenger (peace be upon him) that prohibits keeping a dog except for hunting or guarding. Please bear in mind that many drugs have been, thanks to Allah, detected by means of these dogs.Respected Shaykh, please guide us to the appropriate procedure. May Allah protect and support you.

A: There is nothing wrong with this work. However, you should avoid the Najasah (ritual impurity) of the dog. You should wash out the saliva or urine that stains your clothes or body. You should also wash any vessel which the dogs lick seven times; the first time with soil or whatever can replace it.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.