A Scots police dog handler has penned a heartbreaking tribute to his beloved police dog Vinnie after the heroic Alsatian passed away.
PC Gordon Mitchell was devastated when seven-year-old PD Vinnie tragically died on Tuesday following a battle with cancer.
Vinnie had been diagnosed with inoperable cancer following a life-long career in the force.
The brave police dog was awarded a Certificate of Recognition for finding a vulnerable 82-year-old man lost in dense woodland who would have died had he not been found.
Handler PC Mitchell dedicated this poem to Vinnie, who has been added to the K9 Memorial Roll of Honour.
I said goodbye to my friend today.
It was harder than I thought.
A friend that stood by me,
never asking why or what.
My friend, my colleague, my protector
He was always by my side.
An angel on my shoulder
Surveying far and wide.
A watchman in the darkest night
His courage tested many times
He never let me walk alone
Standing firmly by my side.
He would search with all his heart
Through terrain so dark and dense
His focus never ceasing
Determination so intense.
Saving one from certain death
A badge of honour that he wore,
Never knowing that throughout his life He saved so many more.
Bringing some to justice
He would take it in his stride
I say proudly as his handler
I’m filled with so much pride
A legend in his own right
He’ll be remembered as he should
A loyal family member
An advocate for all that’s good.
I said goodbye to my friend today
As I placed his lead across my chest
Reaching down to pet him one last time
Laying him to rest.
Rest Big Vin
A statement said: "His handler, PC Gordon Mitchell, his family and those who worked and trained with him will miss him dearly."
