The Railway Dogs Benevolent Fund was set up to support retired police dogs who have completed their service with British Transport Police.
Dottie
Use of Dogs in British Transport Police
For over 100 years police dogs have served alongside officers to protect the public. British Transport Police was the first force in the country to use dogs. In 1908, Airedale Terriers Jim, Mick and Ben patrolled with officers of the north Eastern Railway Police (which later became part of BTP) and a plaque at Hull Docks celebrates this pioneering milestone.
Dogs are used to patrol and protect the railway, as well as support other operations such as football matches, counter-terrorism operations or proactive crime initiatives and ending missing people.
BTP’s Dog Section is now one of the largest in Britain with more than 60 dogs. German Shepherds are used for crime scene work, searching and public order management, while Springer Spaniels and Labradors undertake searches for explosive, drugs and weapons.
Putting their paws up…
Police dogs generally retire around the age of nine, which means most will work for eight years. If a dog is injured, falls ill or is unable to perform the tasks they are trained for they may retire sooner.
When a dog retires all costs relating to their health and welfare become the responsibility of their owner; usually the handler who takes the dog on as a family pet.
Vet bills can be extremely costly, and it is difficult to obtain adequate pet insurance cover because of pre-existing ailments, injuries sustained at work and conditions related to the dangerous nature of policing.
The origins of the charity
BTP officer PC Paul Wood played a crucial role in setting up the fund after losing his police dog to a serious illness.
German Shepherd Luka developed a severe bacterial infection in his nose which began attacking his immune system. Several courses of medication didn’t improve Luka’s health and he was referred for a scan. A week later his condition deteriorated suddenly.
Having already spent £1000 on treatment, and facing a bill for a further £3700, it was a race against time for PC Wood to find the money. Essex Retired Police Dog Fund came to his aid but sadly it was too late for Luka and he passed away before the treatment began.
Paul said, “Following the amazing response and assistance I received from Essex Retired Dog Fund, I was determined that we should have our own charity to assist all retired working dogs”.
“Luka was with me every day of his working life and we had an incredible bond.”
— PAUL WOOD, FOUNDER TRustee
Teddy and Bailey
Our Mission
The Railway Dogs Benevolent Fund (Registered Charity 1190638) was established to support dogs who have completed their service with British Transport Police.
The Fund provides grants towards the cost of their care, including ongoing medical treatment, so these loyal and hardworking animals can enjoy a long and happy retirement.
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