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Steenhuisen orders stay of execution for rescued guide dog Achi

# Agriculture minister John Steenhuisen has intervened to prevent the euthanasia of Achi, a Labrador guide dog rescued from a yacht. Initial procedures raised fears that Achi would be put to sleep due to import regulations, sparking strong public concern. However, he was granted a reprieve following the minister’s direct involvement. Achi was rescued with his owners – a Swiss man and his adult German daughter – when their yacht experienced mechanical failure during rough seas. Achi served as a guide dog before the incident. The decision has allowed Achi to remain with its owner.