Retired police dog Keach

A charity is calling for the Government to provide pensions for retired police dogs.

The payments would recognise the animals’ service and sacrifice.

The Thin Blue Paw Foundation (TBPF) is highlighting the extra care costs faced by former handlers and new owners.

Over the last five years the charity has given £380,000 in grants to help cover vet costs and tackle health issues brought on by the dogs’ demanding work.

Kieran Stanbridge, TBPF chairman and founder, said:

“The dogs throw themselves into dangerous situations without a second thought … to help fight crime and keep the public safe.

“While in service, the dogs receive comprehensive care, but upon retirement, they are left to rely on their handlers or new owners for often costly vet bills.”

TTBPF has started a petition to push the Government for a ring-fenced budget to provide support for the owners of retired police dogs.

Mr Stanbridge said:

“Taking on any dog is a responsibility, but taking on an older retired police dog with health problems is a huge commitment, particularly during the current cost of living crisis.

“We need to ensure that there is support in place for these heroic police dogs so that people aren’t put off the idea of rehoming them when they retire.

“Also, it means owners are never faced with the heartbreaking decision of having them put to sleep because they can’t afford their treatment.”

Common conditions suffered by former police dogs include arthritis.

Treatment can cost more than £2,400 a year.

Insurance is not available in most cases because of pre-existing conditions

Treating arthritis can bring bills of up to £2,400 per year for pain medication.

Also, because these are pre-existing medical conditions they would not be covered by pet insurance.

Police dog handler Julie Roy cared for retired Keach, a German Shepherd, when the animal retired from the West Midlands Police.

Keach suffers from arthritis and TBPF pays for her medication.

Julie said: “Vet bills are expensive and our dogs have worked hard in their working life, putting extra strain on the joints and the body.

“They deserve to have ongoing support when they retire, so they can access the medication and treatment they need having served their communities for so long.”