Supporting retired police dogs through the Dorwest Foundation
We believe every dog deserves a happy and healthy retirement, especially those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our communities. That’s why we are incredibly proud to support the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, providing vital financial aid for the ongoing health and welfare of retired police dogs across the UK.
Through the Dorwest Foundation, we recently donated £2,000 to help cover the often high and unexpected costs of medical treatment these dogs face due to their strenuous careers.
A remarkable rescue story
One recent and beautiful story saw retired German Shepherd Bear (aged 12), who served with Sussex Police as a general-purpose dog, have his exceptional instincts kick in when they were needed most, leading to an extraordinary real-life rescue.
“We thought it would be a gentle wander, but it ended up being quite dramatic!”
— Owner & former police officer Julia Pope
Last year, Bear was out on his 12th birthday walk – his first proper outing after major surgery to remove two tumours – when he rescued a vulnerable missing person. While walking in the Eastbourne area, owner Julia watched as he went into ‘work mode’, stopping suddenly and dragging them towards a patch of dense undergrowth, where they discovered a man who had fallen and was unable to get up.
“I’m not sure he would have survived the night,” Julia said, noting that the area was remote and the weather was freezing. “It’s an amazing stroke of luck really that we were in the right place at the right time!”
Thanks to Bear, they were able to assist the man and reunite him with searching police officers and his family.
Ongoing care for our canine heroes
Bear has faced significant health challenges since retirement, including emergency surgery for four herniated discs caused by his years of service, followed by intensive hydrotherapy and physiotherapy, as well as his recent tumour removal.
It’s thanks to the Thin Blue Paw Foundation that dogs like Bear can continue to be supported with lifesaving care. Trustee Kieran Stanbridge states: “RPD Bear is a true hero… even in his retirement, he’s still saving lives.”
Dogs like Bear are testament to the incredible spirit of working dogs, and we are honoured that our donation is helping keep heroes like him healthy and happy.
Find out more
To find out more, donate, or sponsor a dog, visit thinbluepaw.org.uk or email hello@thinbluepaw.org.uk.
