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Police Dogs And Horses Will Be Protected By Law Thanks To BGT's Finn

Police Dogs And Horses Will Be Protected By Law Thanks To BGT's Finn

Finally, service dogs and horses will be safer

Amelia Ward

Amelia Ward

From Saturday 8 June, it will be a criminal offence to injure a police dog or horse, thanks to Britain's Got Talent contestant Dave Wardell and his dog Finn.

The pair have made history now that 'Finn's Law' has officially been passed, meaning that police animals are no longer treated as 'force property'.

It all started with police dog Finn, who was stabbed in the chest and head while trying to protect his handler, PC David Wardell, back in 2016.

Baby Finn... My. Heart.
www.fabulousfinn.com

In many peoples' opinion, the 16-year-old who stabbed poor Finn got off way too lightly, having only been charged with criminal damage, as a result of the status animals held within the police force. It was one of the only available charges for anyone who killed or injured a police animal.

The Finn's Law website reads: "On 5th October 2016, Police Dog Finn was viciously stabbed on duty with a 10 inch hunting knife while detaining a robbery suspect.

"Although Finn had sustained life threatening injuries from the first attack, he bravely dived in front of the second thrust, aimed directly for PC Dave Wardell, his handler and dad.

Finn was almost fatally stabbed protecting his dad.
SWNS

"Finn saved his dad's life. However, the second slash with the knife caused another horrific wound to his head. Finn was bleeding profusely.

"Finn survived, just.

"Little did they know their journey had just begun..."

PC Dave Wardell said: "This has been an incredible but testing journey, however it has been such a joy to be a part of, we have met people from all walks of life with a common interest, to ensure police animals are protected while serving their community.

He added: "Finn has attended every single stage at Parliament and is quite a feature there now.

"He has made many friends throughout this journey and I'm sure he won't forget a single one.

"I'm proud of my best friend, he has certainly gone down in history.

"He has turned such a horrendous event into something so positive, his legacy will never be forgotten by his furry colleagues."

Finn made a recovery and his story has changed the future of other police animals.
PA

Finn and Dave left people in tears when they appeared on Britain's Got Talent. The pair, who obviously have an unconditional bond, wowed judges with a casual bit of mind reading (as you do), with Dave successfully guessing David Walliams' word through the power of his pooch.

But that was only the half of it, as a screen behind them then began to tell their incredible story - which was when the tears began.

Thanks to this pair of legends, the dogs and horses looking after us will be that bit safer. Thank you, Finn and Dave!

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Animals