Staffordshire Police will bid farewell to its longest serving dog in January.
Eight-year-old German Shepherd Kash has worked alongside his handler PC Rich Birkin since 2004.
During their time together they have earned commendations from Staffordshire Police and other forces.
Kash’s successor, one-year-old German Shepherd Nico, will also work as a general purpose dog. He has been trained in searching for suspects and missing people, locating objects dropped or concealed during a crime, following a track left by a person on the ground, chasing and detaining a person who runs away when challenged to stop, disarming violent armed suspects and controlling hostile crowds.
PC Birkin said: “Over the years I have built up a very strong bond with Kash. There have been times I have trusted him with my life and he has never let me down, he is always so keen to please.
“Kash is a very experienced dog and the team will really miss him. However, he will remain with me as a family pet. He loves to relax and watch Corrie so I’m sure he won’t have a problem adjusting to retirement!”
Nico will join Rich in the New Year, they will be based at Stafford but will cover the south of Staffordshire, including Burntwood and Lichfield.
Inspector Chris Dawson, of the dog support unit, said: “Nico will work alongside our existing dogs and we welcome him as a new member of the team.
“We already have a strong team of dogs and handlers, but this addition means we can continue to provide a high level of service to keep our local communities safe and reassured.”
Click below to see a video of PC Birkin talking about Kash:
