A rookie police dog who saved a man’s life on his very first shift, a spaniel whose nose uncovered vital evidence in a fatal crash, and a German Shepherd who ran into a burning flat to protect his handler… These are just some of the incredible police dogs celebrated at this year’s Thin Blue Paw Awards.
Being held at The Kennel Club in London this evening Wednesday 24th September, the awards are hosted by TV presenter Radzi Chinyanganya and organised by the Thin Blue Paw Foundation – a charity that celebrates, protects and supports serving and retired police dogs across the UK.
“Every day, police dogs and their handlers put their lives on the line to protect the public,” said Foundation Chairman Kieran Stanbridge.
“We launched the Thin Blue Paw Awards to honour these extraordinary dogs – from rookie stars to retired veterans.
“This year, as we mark our fifth anniversary, we’re thrilled to recognise some truly outstanding achievements that represent the very best of policing. We’re so proud to honour them.”
Police Dog Team of the Year – Staffordshire Police
Staffordshire Police’s Dog Unit (pictured above) received the Police Dog Team of the Year award for their bravery and teamwork during a violent demonstration in Tamworth.
On 4th August 2024, officers and their dogs faced extreme hostility when a crowd gathered for more than eight hours outside a hotel. The team – including PD Kev, PD Bones, PD Vixen, PD Maddie, PD Ebony, and PD Delta – were attacked with bricks, fireworks and physical blows.
Six-year-old PD Vixen suffered a head injury, while PD Kev and PD Bones sustained burns from fireworks.
“It was terrifying,” said PC Leah Smith, handler of PD Bones. “We couldn’t retreat – we had to protect the front line. A firework hit my arm and exploded. It felt like I was on fire.”
PC Ruth Jones, who handles PD Ebony, added: “This was one of the most intense deployments of my career. The professionalism and resilience shown that day were extraordinary.”
Rising Star Award – PD Louie and PC Dan Cuthbertson (Durham/Tyne & Wear)
Three-year-old PD Louie, a rescued Springer Spaniel, won the Rising Star Award alongside handler PC Dan Cuthbertson for locating critical evidence after a devastating crash on the A1(M) in Durham – just six months into his role.
Two people, including eight-month-old Zackary Blades, were killed in the crash. Unbeknownst to dispatch, the victims were known to PC Cuthbertson and had attended his wedding just months earlier.
Despite the personal toll, PD Louie remained focused and uncovered a mobile phone that revealed the speeding, drink-driving offender had been texting and taking photos seconds before the crash. He was later jailed for 17 years.
“Louie didn’t put a paw wrong,” said PC Cuthbertson. “He worked through thick undergrowth and froze to indicate a find. I’m incredibly proud of him.”
Outstanding Bravery Award – PD Yoiko and PC Tom Marsden (Humberside)
Brave PD Yoiko, a four-year-old Dutch import, was recognised with the Outstanding Bravery Award after leaping into a smoke-filled flat to protect his handler from a violent suspect wielding a shovel.
The man had barricaded himself in a burning flat in Hull, refusing to come out and threatening to kill Yoiko.
“He was braced with the shovel like a baseball bat,” said PC Tom Marsden. “Yoiko didn’t hesitate. He leapt forward, bit the suspect, and stopped him before he could strike me.
“He got a double cheeseburger from McDonald’s afterwards – he deserved it!”
Lifetime Achievement Award – RPD Fiji (Surrey/West Sussex)
Twelve-year-old RPD Fiji, a Belgian Malinois, received the Lifetime Achievement Award after an exceptional six-year career with Surrey Police. She joined the force as a four-month-old pup after her owner died and was partnered with PC Claire Bird, who had just returned from maternity leave.
Fiji was retired early in 2019 due to a ligament injury, but left behind a legacy of courage and compassion. She tracked vulnerable missing people, responded to firearms incidents, and received two Chief Constable’s Commendations.
“Fiji was calm when needed, but fierce when the job called for it,” said PC Bird. “She protected me in life-threatening situations.
“She’s a once-in-a-lifetime dog – a true partner and friend.”
Lifesaver Award – PD Dutch and PC Josh Lindley (County Durham)
Newly licensed PD Dutch, a two-year-old Belgian Malinois, proved his worth on his first shift with PC Josh Lindley, helping save a man’s life after a high-risk missing persons call in Hartlepool on 7th June.
Despite distractions and poor weather, Dutch picked up the scent and led PC Lindley into thick undergrowth – where they found the man in distress.
“Tracking isn’t Dutch’s strongest skill,” said PC Lindley, “but he was totally focused. I’m so proud of him.”
Special Recognition Award – PD Nico and PC Leandra McCurry (Leicestershire)
PC Leandra McCurry, 27, was awarded the Special Recognition Award for her resilience and dedication to becoming a police dog handler – a dream she held since childhood.
After losing both her aunt and grandmother during training, and later her father, she continued her career with PD Nico, a five-year-old German Shepherd. Tragedy struck again when fellow dog PD Zyla died on duty.
“My dad knew this job was my dream,” said PC McCurry. “Work helped me through the grief. I couldn’t give up.
“To win this award means everything.”
Crimefighting Duo Award – PC Marissa Barwell and PD Ella (Surrey)
PC Marissa Barwell and five-year-old German Shepherd PD Ella were named winners of the Crimefighting Duo Award for their courageous service in high-risk situations.
In one incident, they confronted a knife-wielding man near a school route, safely containing the threat. In another, PD Ella tracked a vulnerable man on railway lines, helping to bring him to safety.
“I love this job,” said PC Barwell. “It’s part of your life – and the dogs love it too. Ella is loyal and driven, while my other dog, PD Winter, is a crazy little sprocker spaniel with endless energy!
“They’re both phenomenal.”