The London Fire Brigade’s longest-serving fire investigation dog, Sherlock, has officially retired after a what the LFB called today “a distinguished 12-year career”.
Ready for retirement: fire investigation dog Sherlock and his handler Paul Osborne
Working cocker spaniel Sherlock, born in 2012, joined the Brigade at just 10 weeks old, and immediately showed a natural aptitude for his future role. In 2013, Sherlock became a fully certified fire investigation dog, working alongside his handler, Group Commander Paul Osborne.
Sherlock is the Brigade’s longest-serving dog and has had an esteemed career. From attending hundreds of incidents and meeting royalty to earning an Animal Hero Award and even having his own book published, Sherlock’s achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. In recent years, he transitioned into the role of Brigade ambassador, actively promoting fire safety and prevention at community events.
The Brigade selects its specialist fire investigation dogs at a young age, identifying candidates based on their strong drive to play. Sherlock underwent rigorous positive reinforcement training, which rewards him with a tennis ball each time he detects an ignitable substance. He is trained to identify the presence of up to 10 ignitable liquids, ranging from acetone to petrol, whether neat, evaporated, mixed or burnt.
Brought to book: Sherlock has made a name for himself
Sherlock attended the scene of the Grenfell Tower fire, as well as a serious fire in Tottenham that injured two firefighters, and a murder investigation in New Malden.
In his retirement, Sherlock will enjoy a well-deserved rest at home with his handler, who has cared for him throughout his career. The Brigade’s agreement with the London Retired Police Dogs Trust will provide financial support for Sherlock in his golden years.
Paul Osborne, Sherlock’s handler, said: “In dog years, Sherlock is 100 years old, so it’s only fitting for him to hang up his boots now and take a well-earned break. He’ll enjoy a relaxed retirement filled with naps on the sofa, his favourite walks and plenty of belly rubs.
“As Sherlock embarks on this new chapter of his life, his contribution and achievements during his time within London Fire Brigade are testament to his dedication, expertise and unwavering service.”
The Brigade’s Fire Investigation team has two other skilled dogs, eight-year-old Simba and three-year-old Smokey, who remain in service continuing their dedicated work to communities.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T
- Inside Croydon has moved to Bluesky. Click here to join us there for latest updates and insights
Check out our archive of podcasts on Spotify, including our monthly news discussion panel show thingy, the Croydon Insider, and The Andrew Fisher Interview
PAID ADS: To advertise your services or products to our 10,000 weekday visitors to the site, as featured on Google News Showcase, email us inside.croydon@btinternet.com for our unbeatable ad rates
- If you have a news story about life in or around Croydon, or want to publicise your residents’ association or business, or if you have a local event to promote, please email us with full details at inside.croydon@btinternet.com
As featured on Google News Showcase
- Our comments section on every report provides all readers with an immediate “right of reply” on all our content. Our comments policy can be read by clicking here
Inside Croydon is a member of the Independent Community News Network
What a wonderful story, albeit probably should have retired Sherlock earlier to enjoy possibly more years of enjoyment away from work
Animals more or less giving up their freedom to help humans without being asked or should I say given no choice.
Beautiful Sherlock, enjoy your retirement as I hope you do 😊
Enjoy your retirement Sherlock – you’ve certainly earned it
Great story. I wonder if, now he’s retired from active service, a job as Croydon CEO might beckon?
He’d be barking if he did.