Page 28 - Federation Magazine: August/September 2015

he Force’s police dogs play a vital role in operational policing and after retiring from duty many are supported Tthrough the Retired West Midlands Police Dog Benevolent Fund. But now the fund is hoping to build a lasting memorial to the Force’s hard-working canine colleagues. The fund, which is currently applying to be a fully registered charity with the Charity Commission, wants to establish a dedicated memorial garden at the West Midlands Police Dog Training Centre as a permanent place to recognise the dedication and courage of police dogs throughout the West Midlands. “This project has been ongoing since we started the fund, however, we’re now in the final stages and have had our plans authorised. So we’re pressing ahead to get the garden in place as soon as possible,” explains Dave Hibbert from the fund. “We have set ourselves a target of raising around £2,500 which would allow us to have a fitting tribute to the hard working police dogs. But we’re hoping local businesses could provide us with some goods to help reduce the cost of the garden and therefore allow us to keep the cash to help pay for veterinary care for the dogs. “The memorial garden will provide a special place for dog handlers and their families to remember and share the memories of the days they spent working together keeping their communities safe.” Should any of our supporters be in a position to help create the garden – either through the donation of funds or through the provision of goods/services – the fund would be delighted to hear from you. Fund-raising underway for “ The memorial garden will provide a police dog special place for dog handlers and their memorial families to remember and share the memories of the days garden they spent working together keeping their communities safe. Police dog Hugo. 28 federation August/September 2015 www.westmidspolfed.com