MEET

RPD Eric

Breed of dogDutch Herder

Location of servitudeNottinghamshire Police

Type of serviceGeneral Purpose

  • Retired police dog Eric
  • Retired police dog Eric

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RETIRED POLICE DOG ERIC

RPD Eric proudly served with Nottinghamshire Police – as part of the East Midlands Operational Support Unit – for five years before retiring at the age of seven, in 2021.

David Sadler was having a cup of tea with a friend (also sergeant of the dog unit) who happened to mention they had a dog who had been waiting for six months for a new home. He managed to convince his wife and their spaniel, Poppy, to meet him and soon Eric was settling into his new home.

David, from the Nottinghamshire-Derbyshire border, said: “The unit had more dogs than handlers so it was decided that he’d earned a well-deserved rest and he settled into a new chapter of life with us.

“He loves woodland walks and canal-side adventures, especially when accompanied by our children, who keep him on his toes with ball games and plenty of affection. 

Retired police dog Eric
Retired police dog Eric

“Eric has adapted beautifully to life as a family dog; he’s gentle, calm, and always happy to be part of the action.”

Turning 11 in 2025, he celebrated with sausages – his favourite treat – but David said he’s starting to show signs of his age and is a little slower, and stiffer.

“Despite these changes, his spirit remains strong and his love for us all is unwavering,” David added.

Eric is registered with the Foundation and, while he hasn’t yet needed medical support, he receives discounted food through our partnership with Barking Heads.

David said: “Every little bit helps ensure Eric’s later years are as comfortable and happy as his years of service were distinguished.”

Retired police dog Eric

“The help with food makes a real difference and allows Eric to enjoy a higher quality diet than would otherwise be affordable.“

David, Eric’s owner

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