MEET

RPD Hoby

Breed of dogGerman Shepherd

Location of servitudeMinistry of Defence Police

Type of serviceGeneral Purpose

ConditionColon blockage

Grant amount received£2,300

Year of birth to year of death2012 – 2022

  • Retired police dog Hoby at the beach with his toy
  • Retired police dog in the snow

MORE ABOUT RETIRED POLICE DOG HOBY

RPD Hoby was bred in Holland for the Ministry of Defence Police and was partnered with Scott Milligan at two-years-old. 

He served at two main stations in his career, in Berkshire and Gloucestershire, and was also called upon to assist Thames Valley Police. 

Scott’s wife, Hayley, said: “Hoby was excellent at his job. He once tracked a suspect into a half flooded storm drain and swam underwater to fit through a small opening to follow the scent. 

“At nine, Hoby was still keen to work and had all of the courage and fight but his body was sadly starting to let him down so he retired.  

“It was never in question that we would keep him in his retirement as he is a member of our family. He was an absolute sweetheart from the moment he arrived.”

Retired police dog Hoby
Retired police dog Hoby at hydrotherapy

Hayley and Scott tried to insure Hoby but said the quotes they got ‘weren’t realistic’.

When Hoby then fell ill with chronic vomiting and diarrhoea, he was rushed to the vets and needed surgery. He had scar tissue on his colon, leading to a blockage, but they were thankfully able to clear it.

Hayley added: “The final bill was substantial and we couldn’t believe it when the Thin Blue Paw agreed to cover the entire cost. We couldn’t be more grateful for their support. 

“Retired police dog owners are so lucky to have a charity that recognises how special these dogs are and looks after them in their retirement.”

Retired police dog Hoby

IN MEMORY OF

RPD HOBY 2012-2022

“The thing I miss most about Hoby is his kind eyes. Even those who were scared to meet him would melt after five minutes in his presence. He was such a gentleman and a loyal, loving boy. We still miss him every day.” – Hayley

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