MEET

RPD Zippy

Breed of dogSpringer Spaniel

Location of servitudeSurrey Police

Type of serviceSearch & Detection

  • Retired police dog Zippy
  • Retired police dog Zippy

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RETIRED POLICE DOG ZIPPY

RPD Zippy was trained as a search and detection dog before joining operations for Surrey and Sussex Police.

Sadly his career was short-lived and he retired after being diagnosed with an unusual condition called Immune-mediated Haemolytic Anaemia (IMHA) where the body’s immune system attacks its red blood cells.

The condition can cause breathing problems, lead to dogs collapsing, and even prove fatal.

Former Kent Police dog handler Jenny Preston adopted Zippy when she heard his story.

Retired police dog Zippy
Retired police dog Zippy

She said: “I knew people would be put off adopting him due to the condition. If Zippy falls ill then he requires expensive blood transfusions.

“I couldn’t face the idea of Zippy being put to sleep and I wanted to give him a chance so I offered him a home.

“I’ve adopted many retired police dogs, including those with complex health conditions, and the Thin Blue Paw has been an amazing support previously.”

He suffered acute pancreatitis, and the Foundation helped with the cost of the treatment.

Retired police dog Zippy

“It’s such a relief to know that the Thin Blue Paw will be there to help me and Zippy if we ever need them.“

Jenny, Zippy’s owner

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