“He is my best friend and I owe him my life.”

Dog honoured for protecting his handler despite serious injuries 

A police dog that was almost fatally stabbed on duty has been awarded the PDSA’s gold medal, also known as the animal’s George Cross.

Police dog Finn, who is now retired from duty, protected his handler from harm despite being seriously injured.

His story has inspired a campaign for change, Finn’s Law, which calls for greater protection for police dogs and tougher sanctions on those who attack them.

Finn’s attack took place on 5 October, 2016, when he and his handler PC Dave Wardell were called to an address in Stevenage. The dog unit was instructed to give chase to a suspect who was evading arrest.

During the pursuit, the suspect attempted to jump over a fence but Finn foiled his escape by taking hold of his leg.

PC Wardell explains: “In a split second, I saw the man lunge at Finn’s side with a weapon. As he pulled away, I saw a 10-inch blade, covered in Finn’s blood.

“The man then lunged at me with the blade but Finn, despite being seriously hurt, grabbed hold of the suspect and stopped him from landing a fatal blow. My hand was cut in the struggle and Finn’s head was sliced open.

“Despite suffering two serious stab wounds, Finn’s grip on the suspect remained - pulling at the suspect’s leg to stop him from jumping the fence.”

As a result of Finn’s actions, PC Wardle was able to wrestle the assailant to the ground, where he finally dropped the weapon. Other officers arrived at the scene and Finn was rushed to the nearest veterinary practice for life-saving treatment. Miraculously, he recovered and was back on duty 11 weeks later. PC Wardell also needed treatment for a stab wound to his hand.

Finn will receive his award on 6 May at the PDSA’s PetLife ’18 festival at Cheltenham Racecourse. It is the first time an award of this kind has been presented publicly.

“I am bursting with pride that Finn is receiving this award – he is a true gem and embodies everything that is special about police dogs in this country,” PC Wardell commented. “He is my best friend and I owe him my life.”

Chief Constable Charlie Hall, who nominated Finn for the award, alongside the police and crime commissioner, added: “Our Police Dog teams perform outstanding work and are a great source of pride for the Force.

"Finn’s story highlights the vital role that these animals play in our society and the dangers that our officers face on a daily basis. I am thrilled that Finn’s actions are being recognised.”

Image © PDSA