Retired Police Dog Recovers After Major Spinal Surgery
Captain, a retired police German Shepherd dog for West Midlands Police, has been able to make a comeback after undergoing complicated surgery to repair injuries he got from his years of service as a police dog. The nine-year-old former police dog has served communities by ensuring their safety.
Following an injury he received while on duty last year, in 2022, Captain was forced into early retirement when he had his cruciate ligament injured while working with his handler, PC Marcus Cottrell.
Years of Service Took Their Toll
Veterinarians would eventually learn that Captain had serious problems with his spine, owing to the breakdown of two discs in his back. These affected his spinal cord and restricted his mobility, leading to great pain.
In preparation for the surgery, Captain endured almost two years of intense treatment and rehabilitation.
Captain’s treatment included:
- Two MRI scans
- Daily pain medication
- 198 hydrotherapy sessions
- Specialist consultations
- Strength-building therapy sessions
- Advanced spinal reconstruction surgery
The procedure took four hours altogether, during which the surgeons worked on repairing the damaged discs and removing some bone to take the pressure off his spinal cord
A Long Road to Recovery
After his operation, Captain received five days of post-surgical veterinary care, after which he returned home for his recovery process. He is now undergoing recovery with crate rest followed by physiotherapy and hydrotherapy sessions.
During the whole process, PC Marcus Cottrell has been there for his former partner, even going to bed with him on the sofa to make sure he was comfortable while recovering.
About Captain, PC Cottrell describes him as his “best mate.”
A Distinguished Police Career
During his years with West Midlands Police, Captain played an important role in numerous operations.
Some of his achievements included:
- Tracking and locating suspects on the run
- Recovering weapons used in crimes
- Assisting in major investigations
- Helping detain dangerous offenders
- Receiving the Police Chief’s Certificate of Achievement
One notable incident involved Captain helping officers locate a suspect involved in a serious stabbing case.
Calls for Greater Support for Retired Police Dogs
Thin Blue Paw Charity has helped provide Captain with about £20,000 worth of treatment and has appealed to the government to ensure that there should be pensions for retired police dogs.
This charity feels that these dogs give years of their lives protecting the citizens, and therefore, they need care even after retiring from service.
The case of Captain has reminded us that the service provided by the police dogs goes beyond retirement.
References Link: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0jy64nlgw5o
