‘Hero’ search dog dies after 12 years of service

Red was the Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team's first search dog

Tributes have been paid to a search and rescue dog who died after 12 years of service.

Border collie Red was the Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team’s first search dog.

He joined his handler Dave Barley in 2011 at eight weeks old and went on to take part in more than 250 searches.

But Red was forced to retire after being diagnosed with cancer a year ago and died on 30 November, the charity said.

The National Search and Rescue Dog Association (NSARDA) announced his death with “great sadness”.

Posting on Facebook, the group said he had a “wonderful” career.

“Red lived life to the full doing a job he loved surrounded by people who loved him,” they said.

“Everyone who came into contact with Red knew how special he was and he touched everyone's hearts.”

Red had been with his handler Dave Barley since he was eight weeks old

Red was initially given a prognosis of six weeks to six months to live when he was diagnosed with cancer in December 2022.

But he carried on “enjoying life and cheese” for another 12 months until a sudden deterioration led to the heart-breaking decision to “let him go”, according to the NSARDA.

The Staffordshire Search and Rescue Team also paid tribute to Red on Facebook, thanking him for his “dedication and service”.

Responding to the posts, people hailed his impact and described him as a “hero”.

One person wrote: “Run free little one over the rainbow bridge. Your work is done.”