Paws up for Manchester bombing hero dog
A police dog that was first on the scene for the Manchester Arena bombing last May has retired after a seven-year career.
Mojo and handler Police Constable Phil Healy spent 11 hours searching the blast site despite having just clocked off after spending the whole previous day on duty.
The British Transport Police dog was the first in the Arena after the terror attack that killed 23 people including off-duty Cheshire Constabulary officer Elaine McIver.
He suffered stress-related alopecia in the aftermath of the incident, and patrolled the Arena for its reopening in September.
Throughout his career, Mojo has made a name for himself searching stations and sidings to ensure security for visiting Royals and other dignitaries, and was presented with the Humanitarian award at Crufts earlier this year in recognition of his efforts.
He is now passing his skills onto two new trainee police dogs – Harry and Bennii – that currently live with PC Healy.
PC Healy said Mojo is “showing the young ‘uns the ropes but he can usually be found in his favourite spot in front of the fire with his paws up. He’s certainly earned his retirement”.
He added: “Mojo is definitely enjoying a slower pace of life and he seems to be taking to it very well. Retirement certainly suits him.”
