Former police dog receives award from national animal charity

A former West Mercia police dog who saved the life of his handler has received a bravery award from a national charity.

PD Bacca was presented with a Gold Medal Award from the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) during a special ceremony at the Birmingham Rep Theatre today (Friday). 

The medal - the canine equivalent of The George Cross - and a certificate were accepted by PD Bacca's handler, PC Mike Davey.

Back in June 2018, PC Davey was responding to an incident in Bromyard, Herefordshire during the early hours of the morning where a man armed with a knife was smashing shop windows.

As he attempted to stop him, the man used the knife - causing PC Davey to suffer injuries to his hands.

PD Bacca was slashed a number of times during the incident, but despite his injuries, he returned to protect PC Davey before eventually helping to bring down the perpetrator.

Both PC Davey and PD Bacca retired from the force in February and are now happily enjoying their retirement together.

Speaking about the award, Assistant Chief Constable Geoff Wessell said: "Congratulations to PD Bacca for being awarded the PDSA gold medal - an award he so richly deserves.

"Our police dogs, although trained extensively to deal with all sorts of incidents do, on a daily basis, put their own safety on the line to protect not only their handlers but the communities in which we live.

"Back in June 2018, PD Bacca and his handler Mike faced a particularly difficult incident and had to deal with a dangerous armed suspect.

"Not only was PD Bacca injured but Mike was too, and the extraordinary bravery and devotion to duty that PD Bacca showed that day has certainly been recognised through this award.

"My thanks go to the PDSA who do so much to care for sick and injured animals for people who struggle with the high cost of veterinary bills and for recognising the heroic actions of our serving animals through its Animal Awards Programme.

"With organisations such as this and the recent implementation of Finn's Law, our serving animals are receiving more and more recognition for the sacrifice they make in protecting all of us. It is only right that we too protect these animals by bringing those to justice who can cause significant harm to them.

"I was honoured to be able to attend this event alongside PC Davey and PD Bacca to witness them receiving such a prestigious award, and one the entire Dog Section within West Mercia Police will be intensely proud of.

"On behalf of the force, thank you and thank you to Bacca and Mike."