Avon and Somerset Police have announced the death of a beloved police dog. Bear was handled between 2012-2018, and mainly served in the Bristol area.
From 2019, Bear retired to a caring family, who looked after him until his passing. As a working dog, Bear was a part of a GP & TFSD team.
Avon and Somerset Police have released a touching tribute to Bear. The Avon and Somerset Police Dogs Twitter account made the announcement yesterday afternoon (4 August).
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They said: "It's with a heavy heart that we have to announce the very peaceful passing of RPD Bear. Bear was handled between 2012-18 and mainly served in the Bristol area as part of a GP & TFSD team.
"He retired to a lovely family who gave him such a wonderful retirement. Run free, Bear."
Bear's owners run a Twitter account in his name, and released a touching tribute to the ex-police dog yesterday evening (4 August). It said, "It absolutely breaks my heart to tell you that beautiful Bear died today.
"He went for his lunchtime sleep and sadly didn't wake up. He wasn't unwell and was still very fit and active on the farm.
"Bear joined us in 2019 after serving with Avon and Somerset Police with his handler, Rich. Thank you for the past three years and for sharing your retirement with us.
"So many special memories, from biting a DEFRA inspector who climbed over the farm gate, to not leaving my daughter's bedside after she had surgery. So very loyal, protective and loving.
"Such a gentle way with children. I couldn't have asked for a more faithful friend.
"The farm is going to be very empty without him. Sleep well, big man."
The tribute has received over 1.1k likes on Twitter. Many Twitter users have responded passing on their condolences to Avon and Somerset Police, and Bear's owners.
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