North Yorkshire Police has started issuing dogs with collar numbers.
Assistant chief constable Elliot Foskett said the move was in recognition of dogs being colleagues rather than just assets.
The animals will also have their names added to a new Police Dog Roll of Honour at the force’s headquarters at Northallerton when they retire or are killed in the line of duty. Their police handlers will be presented with a ceremonial dog collar.
In another move, North Yorkshire Police has created a memorial garden for police dogs at Northallerton. PD Dixon, who died in March last year has been given the first collar number PD0001.
PC Josh Hunsely with Rhun
ACC Foskett said:
“Our police dogs are not simply force assets, they are our colleagues. They work alongside us every day and along with their handlers, are responsible for catching some of the most prolific and dangerous criminals operating in our communities.
“I was delighted to be able to recognise their importance to us as a force and the wider public.”
North Yorkshire Police also announced today it has introduced a new animal welfare scheme that will see unannounced checks on its kennels.
North Yorkshire Police dog handler Sergeant Gareth Gummerson said:
“Animal welfare is paramount, not only to me as an individual, but also as a police dog handler and I share this passion with my colleagues on the force’s dog section.”
PC Tony Barnes with Molly, who is trained to find drugs, cash and weapons.
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