'My retired hero police dog deserves a pension'

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Police dogs who have dedicated years of their lives to serve alongside law enforcement officers deserve to receive a pension upon retirement, according to Thin Blue Paw, a charity that advocates for the welfare of police dogs. Each year, 50 to 70 police dogs retire from their duties and are either adopted by members of the public or their former handlers. These retired dogs often come with complex medical needs, including chronic health issues and injuries sustained during their service.

Laura Meller, a resident of Loughborough in Leicestershire, has personally adopted three retired police dogs, one of whom is Marco, a black Labrador who served with Durham Constabulary for two years. Meller believes that retired police dogs should receive financial support for their veterinary expenses, as they have bravely served alongside officers and faced various dangers in the line of duty.

Marco, now five years old, played a crucial role in rescuing a vulnerable man in the middle of the night, demonstrating his loyalty and dedication to his duty. Despite the significant contributions of retired police dogs like Marco, concerns have been raised about the financial burden placed on adopters due to rising veterinary costs. The absence of a pension for these retired animals may deter potential adopters, leaving older police dogs at risk of euthanasia.

Another retired police dog, Audi, lives with Katie Wright and her family in a rural area near Stafford. Audi, who now enjoys a relaxed retirement, once faced a life-threatening situation where he was stabbed by a suspect. The injuries and joint issues resulting from his service require ongoing medical care, which adds to the financial responsibility of his adoptive family. Despite the challenges, Wright remains committed to providing Audi with a comfortable retirement, acknowledging his service to the community and the sacrifices he made during his police career

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More

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