London Fire Brigade’s longest-serving fire investigation dog has officially retired after a distinguished 12-year career.
Working Cocker Spaniel Sherlock, born in 2012, joined the Brigade at just ten weeks old, showing a natural aptitude for his future role.
In 2013, Sherlock became a fully certified Fire Investigation dog, working alongside his handler, Group Commander Paul Osborne.
He is the Brigade’s longest-serving dog and has had an esteemed career.
From attending hundreds of incidents and meeting royalty to earning an Animal Hero Award and even publishing his own book, Sherlock’s achievements are nothing short of extraordinary.
In recent years, he transitioned into the role of Brigade ambassador, actively promoting fire safety and prevention at community events.
The Brigade selects its specialist fire investigation dogs at a young age, identifying candidates based on their strong drive to play. Sherlock underwent rigorous positive reinforcement training, which rewarded him with a tennis ball each time he detected an ignitable substance.
He is trained to identify the presence of up to 10 ignitable liquids, ranging from acetone to petrol, whether neat, evaporated, mixed or burnt.
Among the many notable incidents he attended were the Grenfell Tower fire, a serious fire in Tottenham that injured two firefighters and a murder investigation in New Malden. His keen nose made him instrumental in assisting fire investigators throughout his 12 years of service.
Now retired, Sherlock will enjoy a well-deserved rest at home with his handler Paul, who has cared for him throughout his career.
The Brigade’s agreement with the London Retired Police Dogs Trust (LRPD) will provide financial support for Sherlock in his golden years.
Sherlock’s handler, Group Commander Paul Osborne, said: “Following an illustrious and decorated career, Sherlock will be stepping down from LFB. He has been working at the Brigade for 12 years, and in that time has been influential in maintaining our dog handling capability way beyond his tenure as well as showing the other dogs the ropes.
“In dog years, Sherlock is 100 years old, so it’s only fitting for him to hang up his boots now and take a well-earned break. He’ll enjoy a relaxed retirement filled with naps on the sofa, his favourite walks and plenty of belly rubs.
“As Sherlock embarks on this new chapter of his life, his contribution and achievements during his time within London Fire Brigade are testament to his dedication, expertise and unwavering service.”
The Brigade’s Fire Investigation team has two other skilled dogs, eight-year-old Simba and three-year-old Smokey, who remain in service continuing their dedicated work to communities both within and outside of the London Fire Brigade area.
On average, fire investigation dogs serve for around 10 years and undergo annual training refreshers to ensure their skills remain sharp.
A welll-earned and deserved Retirement, for a long serving devoted Fire Dog, FirsClass; may he enjoy his rest for years to come.
Word has it that, Off-Duty, he enjoys a Pint and the occasional cigar; and scurrilous rumours say that, in younger days, he was named in at least two sets of Paternity Papers.
Whatever, may he flourish and enjoy himself!