MEET

RPD Red

Breed of dogSpringer Spaniel

Location of servitudeBedfordshire Police

Type of serviceSearch & Detection

  • Retired police dog Red poses for the camera in a flowery garden
  • John walking Red along the beach
  • Retired police dog Red profile in black and white

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RETIRED POLICE DOG RED

RPD Red worked for Bedfordshire Police as an explosives detection dog.

As a puppy, the Springer Spaniel lived with the Sexton family to begin her training, before joining the police and spending her career at Luton Airport.

Sadly, her career came to an end in 2024 when she fractured her elbow in an accident. She needed a number of operations and was medically retired in February 2025.

Elizabeth and John Sexton knew they wanted to offer her a retirement home. 

Elizabeth said: “We feel very lucky to have Red back with us, despite the very sad end to her wonderful career.

Police dog Red as a puppy curled up in her bed with a shoe
Retired police dog Red lays at the feet of her owner, John

“There was never any doubt that Red would come back to us; John didn’t hesitate to offer her a home for the rest of her life.

“He adored her and spent many hours sitting with her and taking her on little walks as she slowly recovered and regained her strength.”

Tragically, John died suddenly in May 2025, leaving the whole family in shock.

Elizabeth said: “Red has been an absolute blessing and has brought me a lot of comfort and company since losing John. We believe she came back to us for a good reason.

“We are very happy to have had the opportunity to rehome her and are able to keep in touch with her lovely handler who misses her a great deal.

“Red is loved by everyone who has been part of her life and always will be.”

Retired police dog Red poses for the camera in a flowery garden

“Vet bills are a worry for so many pet owners and the Foundation is an absolute lifeline for these dogs. It gives them the chance to have the treatment they need without the worry as to how it will be paid for.“

Elizabeth, Red’s owner

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