Wheelchair gives retired Dorset Police dog new lease of life

A police dog who was forced to retire from Dorset Police after becoming paralysed has been given a new lease of life.

In 2018, Vinnie was diagnosed with a disease that affected his spinal cord and left his back legs paralysed.

Thanks to help from a local charity he's now got a custom wheelchair and out in the open air enjoying the outdoors.

Dave Harfield, Vinnie's new owner, says despite the setback he remains full of life and as strong spirited as ever.

Vikki Ritchie set up the charity Pawsome Pensions to raise money to help pay for veterinary bills for former police and fire dogs in Dorset and the south west of England. They stepped in to help pay Vinnie's medical bills.

The German shepherd dog worked with Dorset Police from September 2013 alongside PC Brendan Trent. He retired in 2018, after five years helping officers on the beat.

He played a vital role during his time as a police dog patrolling the streets of Dorset.