RETIRED POLICE DOG BECKS

Labrador-cross Becks was trained to become a guide dog by the Blind Association but was kicked out of the programme after proving too playful and bouncy for the role. He was gifted to Sussex Police at 18-months-old and started on an explosive search course. 

He was partnered with dog handler PC Sam Kembery, from Worthing, who now works in CID. Sam said: “He’s a big lad and he is full of personality but he passed his training first time with flying colours. He has a really good nose on him.”

The duo were stationed at Gatwick Airport – alongside Sam’s second search dog, cocker spaniel Reggie - where they carried out passive searches of passengers and luggage.

“The smaller dogs are excellent search dogs but bigger breeds were introduced as passive search dogs to scan the air around passing passengers meaning they could identify explosives hidden higher on the body,” Sam added.

“I worked dual dogs for years but had to leave the unit in 2016 when I injured my back. Reggie had nasal fatigue and retired at the same time as me but Becks was reassigned to a new handler and worked for another two years until he was offered to me for his retirement. I accepted straight away and it was great to have him home. 

“He trotted straight into the kitchen, sat down and stared at the kitchen cupboard where I used to keep the treats. After all that time, he hadn’t forgotten!”

In February, Becks was out walking with Sam and her two-year-old son, Zach, when he cut his paw and needed stitches at a cost of £600. The following month I spotted a lump on his back which was growing rapidly and vets said the blastoma – a benign growth – needed to be removed. The surgery would cost £1,200. 

Sam said: “I don’t have that kind of money. I only work part-time and I have my son to take care of. When the Thin Blue Paw Foundation offered to cover both bills I couldn’t believe it. I cried my eyes out; it was just such a huge weight off my mind.

“If I’d had no help it would have gone on a credit card and I’d be in debt now. I’m just so grateful to the charity and all of its supporters.

“I think it’s crucial that we give ex-service dogs the highest quality of care and, without the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, I don’t think that would be achieved. I will be eternally grateful for everyone’s generosity at the Thin Blue Paw Foundation and for helping me give Becks the care he deserves.”

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