Retired West Midlands Police dog recovering after spinal surgery
A retired West Midlands Police dog is recovering at home after undergoing specialist surgery to treat spinal problems
A retired West Midlands Police dog is recovering at home after undergoing specialist surgery to treat spinal problems linked to the physical demands of his working life.
The nine-year-old German Shepherd, Captain, served with West Midlands Police for three years before retiring in 2022. In retirement, he developed issues with his spine and required surgery to repair damaged discs.
Specialists first advised an operation in 2024, but Captain was not initially strong enough to undergo the procedure. In the meantime, he received regular hydrotherapy sessions, alongside medication, scans and veterinary care to help prepare him for surgery.
He went on to have spinal reconstruction surgery lasting around five hours and remained at the veterinary hospital for five days before being discharged to continue his recovery at home.
In total, his treatment and rehabilitation has included nearly 200 hydrotherapy sessions as well as extensive medical care.
His owner, Marcus, handled him during his police career and has been by his side throughout.
Marcus said: “Captain is so special; he’s my best mate and is always with me. He was my partner at work and now he’s my partner in retirement.”
Marcus added: “Without the continued support of the Thin Blue Paw Foundation I fear that, due to my own circumstances, Captain may have been put to sleep.
“I be eternally grateful for the charity and its supporters for giving Captain a second chance at having a happy retirement. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”