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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Kathleen Speirs

Scotland's first underwater sniffer dog trained to find bodies in River Clyde retires

Scotland's only underwater sniffer dog trained to find human bodies in the River Clyde has retired from duty.

Hero pooch Barra used his very special skills to reunite grieving families with their lost loved-ones.

The 12-year-old springer spaniel started training as a pup and could find human remains by standing at the bow of a boat and sniffing the air.

His owner Iain Marshall announced on Tuesday that, due to mobility issues, Barra would be retiring after 11 years of service.

The coastguard volunteer said: "Today Barra did his last day at work on the river.

"Now, at 12 years of age, his mobility is causing concern.

"I'm sure you will all agree that after 11 years of service it's time for him to put his paws up and enjoy his retirement."

Barra is retiring after 11 years of service on the banks of the River Clyde (K9 SEARCH AND RECOVERY SCOTLAND)

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Iain, from Helensburgh, West Dunbartonshire, spent a year training Barra using pigs' meat.

When he smells something, he barks, scratches the deck and sits down. He stands again if the boat goes out of range of the scent.

Barra found his first missing person while still in training, and was passed for active duty in September 2011.

When Barra first qualified, Iain, then aged 44, told how his dog's incredible work brings solace to families at times of tragedy.

Barra was trained as a pup and could then smell human remains by sitting at the bow of a boat and sniffing the air (K9 SEARCH AND RECOVERY SCOTLAND)

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He previously told the Daily Record: "We get calls from police and coastguards all over the country to help in the search for missing people.

"Not knowing where someone's body is can be really horrendous for their families.

"Before Barra, we had to wait for bodies to float to the top, which could take months.

"Barra is a great dog. He lives with me and my family and we love him to bits."

Greater Glasgow locals took to social media to hail Barra for his 'outstanding' efforts over the years.

April Mackie wrote: "Enjoy your retirement, Barra.

"You have changed so many lives with your work.

"You truly are an amazing dog."

Toni-Ann Hope added: "Enjoy your retirement, Barra, you deserve it.

"An outstanding dog who has delivered incredible work over the years."

Chad Kirkbride posted: "Happy retirement, Barra.

"Put your paws up, relax and enjoy your retirement.

"You well and truly deserve it."

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