Stabbed police dog honoured for his life saving bravery

A West Merica police dog who was brutally stabbed in the line of duty has been honoured with the PDSA Gold Medal - the equivalent of the George Cross.

PD Bacca has become the 28th recipient of the medal since it was introduced in 2002.

He was given the honour for his bravery protecting his handler, PC Mike Davey, in Herefordshire last summer.

PC Mike Davey:

Bacca sustained a number of wounds to his head and neck during the attack in June last year, but still managed to detain the suspect after he ran down an alleyway, before PC Davey could arrest him.

Officers were responding to reports of a man smashing shop windows and acting in a violent, unpredictable manner, in Bromyard High Street. Once police arrived the man began wielding a large knife and he appeared extremely distressed.

Bacca required emergency veterinary treatment, including stitches, while his handler needed treatment for a deep wound on his hand.

Bodycam footage captured the moments just seconds after PC Davey and PD Bacca received several knife wounds.

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Richard Hooker, PDSA:

Both PC Davey and PD Bacca retired from the force in February and are now happily enjoying their retirement together.