RETIRED POLICE DOG DANNY

Twelve-year-old springer spaniel Danny was trained by security company G4S as an explosive search dog. As a two-year-old he was deployed in the run-up to the London Olympics to search vehicles and keep the public safe. 

As part of the Olympic Legacy project, Danny and five other dogs were redeployed to Northern Ireland for further training with Police Service Northern Ireland (PSNI) to qualify as police explosive search dogs.   

PSNI operational handler and trainer Trevor McCaughey, from County Down, took PD Danny on and the duo worked together until 2016, including at a number of major events such as the 39th G8 Summit and the World Police & Fire Games. 

Trevor said: “Unfortunately, around 2015 Danny began to develop an issue with travelling in motor vehicles. Although this did not impact negatively on his ability to search, concerns about his welfare led to his early retirement at the start of 2016.”

Danny remained with Trevor and his other retired drugs search dog, Milo. In 2019, RPD Danny was diagnosed with deteriorating liver function and prescribed liver support medication. He was later diagnosed with arthritis, requiring further medication. Despite his medical challenges, Danny continues to be active and enjoys long walks and playing with his tennis ball.

Trevor added: “I retired from the PSNI at the end of 2019 and, until recently, had three retired police dogs. Food, monthly flea treatments, annual vaccinations and unexpected trips to the vets can be quite expensive and, although I am happy to pay, the generous financial assistance I now receive from the Thin Blue Paw Foundation is greatly appreciated.

“It’s amazing that the Foundation and its supporters acknowledge what service dogs like Danny have given and are helping them in such a practical way.”

You can help us support retired police dogs like Danny by making a one-off or monthly donation today!