A rescue spaniel adopted by Wiltshire Police has completed specialist training to become a fully licensed Drugs, Cash and Firearms Recovery dog, highlighting the extraordinary potential of rescue animals in law enforcement.
From Rescue to Recovery Specialist
Frank, a two-year-old Cocker Spaniel rehomed from Dogs Trust Canterbury in March 2025, has officially passed his police training course. Handed in due to family health reasons, Frank quickly showed “crime-fighting potential” according to Dogs Trust staff — a quality now realised in the field.
Louise Crawford, AWS Coordinator at Dogs Trust, added:
“Frank’s story shows the incredible value rescue dogs bring to frontline services. We’re thrilled he’s thriving with Wiltshire Police and helping fight crime.”
Since its inception in 2002, the AWS has welcomed 32 police forces across the UK. Dogs Trust continues to support the scheme, identifying dogs like Frank with potential for specialist detection roles and pairing them with appropriate agencies.
Learn More
For more about Dogs Trust’s work with service dogs, visit:
dogstrust.org.uk/how-we-help/professionals/service-dogs
