Springer spaniels rescued from 'squalid' Doncaster home start new lives as police dogs

Bruce, Pablo, Lola and Nellie have been taken on by Greater Manchester Police

Nellie is one of the newest recruits to GMP's tactical dog unit
Author: Matt SoanesPublished 24th Sep 2025
Last updated 24th Sep 2025

Four springer spaniels rescued from 'squalid' conditions at a Doncaster home have all started new careers with Greater Manchester Police.

Bruce, Pablo, Lola and Nellie were among 80 dogs found living in at an abandoned home in Tickhill back in April.

All of the animals were handed over to the RSPCA and foster carers, with the four springers becoming the latest to join GMP's tactical dog unit.

They were selected for their 'strong personalities' and potential to become the sniffer dogs of the future.

“We’re giving them the best life possible,” said PC Wes Donnelly, of GMP's Tactical Dog Unit.

“These dogs have gone from being neglected to having a real purpose. Providing their training goes well they’ll soon be helping us detect drugs, cash and other items that support investigations”.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.