A retired police dog, Jooba, is home for Christmas after undergoing life-saving surgery funded by a charity dedicated to supporting retired service animals. The nine-year-old Belgian Malinois, who spent her career working with both the military and police forces, is now recovering from a third operation in two years, with her owner expressing deep gratitude for the charity’s assistance.
Jooba’s service included working with the military in Dorset before joining South Wales and South Yorkshire police forces. After retiring in 2022, she faced several health challenges, including a tear in her cruciate ligament, which required surgery last year. Unfortunately, after developing a limp again in November, she required another operation, followed by emergency treatment in December when an infection set in.
Thanks to the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, which stepped in to cover the significant medical costs, Jooba is now recovering well and has been reunited with her family in Barnsley for the holiday season. The charity, which provides financial support to retired service animals, has been instrumental in Jooba’s recovery.
Jooba’s owner and former handler, Michael Greaves, expressed immense gratitude for the charity’s support. “Jooba worked tirelessly with me throughout her career, assisting in detaining suspects, locating missing persons, and supporting the firearms response team. To have her back at home after all she’s been through is an incredible gift,” he said.
Greaves explained that despite her retirement, Jooba’s health struggles had continued. Her first surgery in November 2022 was to address the ligament tear, followed by a second procedure after she started limping again. Her third surgery, which took place in early December, was to treat the infection that had caused her significant pain.
Kieran Stanbridge, co-founder and trustee of the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, praised Jooba’s dedication to her service and emphasized the importance of providing proper care for retired working dogs. “Jooba gave years of service to both the military and the police, and it’s only right that she receives the best care now that she’s retired,” he said. “This is what our foundation is all about—ensuring these brave dogs get the support they need in their golden years.”
Since its founding, the Thin Blue Paw Foundation has supported over 150 retired service dogs across the UK, granting more than £300,000 to help cover veterinary expenses. As Jooba recovers, her family looks forward to celebrating Christmas together, grateful for the kindness and care that allowed their loyal companion to be home for the holidays.
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