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MEET
RPD Merlin
Belgian Malinois
Ministry of Defence Police
General Purpose
MEET RETIRED POLICE DOG MERLIN
What does retirement look like for Merlin?
“Merlin loves walks around the town; exploring all the areas, taking in the new sights and smells. He spends his days playing with PD Tina, who he adores, and loves playing with his ball on the local field.”
What is your favourite memory with Merlin since his retirement?
“Our favourite memory with RPD Merlin is his first birthday since he came home. He was treated to an iced ‘woofin’ and a Kong which chose himself from the pet shop. He had never played with a toy like that before and had an amazing time.”
Tell us a funny story about Merlin…
“One night we were having takeaway and we wondered where Merlin had disappeared off to. We found him in the kitchen with his head in the bin trying to fish out leftover doner meat. When we called him, he came running across with his head covered in ketchup!”
What is Merlin’s health like?
“Merlin had half of his toe bitten off by another police dog during service while he was in an exercise run. He then had to have the rest of the toe amputated but, thankfully, this didn’t affect his service and he was back on active duty in no time.”
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RETIRED POLICE DOG MERLIN IN RETIREMENT
RPD Merlin worked as a general purpose dog with the Ministry of Defence and was based at DM Longtown, in Cumbria, for six years until he retired at the age of eight.
He played a vital role in the dog support unit but, sadly, his handler was unable to adopt him on his retirement and he preceded to spend two years in kennels before he was adopted by Josh Allen.
Josh said: “While he was in kennels he gained a reputation as a lovable old gentleman who was ready to don his flatcap for country walks!


“Merlin has absolutely won over to hearts of the entire family with his happy smile and cheeky mannerisms.”
Eleven-year-old Merlin retired due to old age and, thankfully, his health has been generally good in his retirement.
But Josh says he and his family feel relieved to be registered with the Foundation and loves being part of the community of retired police dog owners.
Josh added: “It’s an amazing community which is always ready to give advice or help.”

“The Thin Blue Paw Foundation means the world to us and gives us peace of mind that we can ask for help if ever needed.”
Josh, Merlin’s owner
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Your sponsorship pack will include:
- Sponsorship certificate
- Photo of your sponsor dog
- A cuddly German Shepherd teddy
- Quarterly email updates on your sponsor dog

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