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Today, a 'cut & paste' from this month's edition of the PDSA newsletter. Blogville Pawlice Force pay particular note!!! This is an extra-special report...

Jake (posthumous)

Springer Spaniel Jake has been recognised for his outstanding service to Warwickshire Police over a ten-year career. Jake made over 500 operational finds including assault rifles, shotguns, hand guns, over £650,000 worth of banknotes and over £4.5 million worth of illegal drugs.
Jake’s career with Warwickshire Police began at 18-months-old, when he underwent a four-week intensive course to train him to search and identify drugs. Jake went on to complete similar courses to find firearms, ammunition and banknotes. After graduation, he was partnered with PC Andy Crouch and the pair stayed together throughout Jake’s illustrious career.
Jake worked at some high-profile sporting events, such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup Festival and major music events, including Glastonbury. He even uncovered a stash of drugs live on TV.
At one music festival Jake found over £2,000 worth of well-concealed cannabis on a tour bus, resulting in the delay of the headline act. On another occasion he intercepted a car heading into a festival, leaping through an open window to uncover £1,000 worth of cocaine, hidden underneath the centre console.
Jake retired in August 2014. He passed away suddenly in March 2015. His PDSA Order of Merit Medal was presented to Gwen, serving Police Dog with Warwickshire Police, at Goldsmiths’ Hall, London on 29 April 2015.

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Commenting on the award, Jan McLoughlin, PDSA Director General, said: “Jake’s contribution to Warwickshire Police has been truly remarkable. His track-record was astounding and we are delighted to honour his fantastic career in this way.
“The PDSA Order of Merit was created to ensure that extraordinary animal contributions can be properly recognised and honoured, however and wherever they occur. Animals play a vital role in society, whether as pets, as assistance animals, or within our police and armed forces. This award recognises their contribution and celebrates that special bond that exists between humans and animals”.
PC Crouch said: “Jake worked tirelessly and performed thousands of searches. Even after his retirement, he loved playing and we would often set up ‘finds’ for him to seek out, to keep him stimulated. Jake would have carried on working, given half the chance, but it was important for him to take some time out. He was a joy to work with and I doubt that many handlers will find a dog so willing to work and to please.
“My family and I were devastated when Jake passed away, especially so close to this award being presented. But I am very proud to be here with his old canine colleague and friend, Gwen, to accept the award on his behalf. Jake’s award will take pride of place in our home, along with his Police Commendation and his Force tag, which he wore every day for ten years.”
Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Ron Ball, who nominated Jake for the PDSA Order of Merit was also present to witness the award being presented:
“Jake’s service and achievements over the last ten years have been a great cause of pride in the force. PC Crouch and Jake formed a formidable team and there is no doubt that some serious criminals have been thwarted by Jake’s finely-tuned nose. He was an exceptional little dog and we are thrilled to see him recognised and decorated as part of PDSA’s Animal Awards Programme.”

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8 comments:

  1. OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOhhhhhhhhhh Jake...
    Way to GO... What a grand story about a GRRRREAT Dog !!!!!

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  2. Proof that dogs are making the world a better place! We are not afraid to do a job if we are taught how to do it! What a great example!

    Your Pals,

    Murphy & Stanley

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  3. What a lovely story. We are glad Jake was recognized even if it was after his death.

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  4. Jake is a true hero! Thanks for sharing his story. I'm glad he was recognized for his bravery and dedication to his job. I'm sure he is looking from across the bridge ...feeling happy for a life well lived.

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  5. What a wonderful story. I must show this one to Phil as he comes from Warwickshire and I know how much he loves dogs.
    It is fantastic the work that dogs, and other animals. do and this fine chap so deserved his award. I wonder if his death so soon after his retirement could have happened because he so missed his police work? I know that happens with humans so perhaps with animals too.
    Thank you for sharing this great story. xx

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    1. Hari OM
      Thanks to all commenters, as ever; Oh yes Mimsie I recall reading that Phil hailed from W'shire. I do think it is wonderful that these rewards exist. No doubt the handlers are fine policeman also and would have their own contribution, but to recognise that the work of the force is bettered by the presence of such as Jake is heart warming. No mention is made of the reasons for Jake's demise but clearly it was rather unexpected. Yxx

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  6. We've brought these working dogs in, like this, and we were all thrilled. Amazing work they do. Good to have work! xx

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