Retired Essex Police dog Baloo wins at Crufts 2025
A retired Essex Police dog who was hit by a car won an award at Crufts 2025. Baloo was given The Kennel Club Hero Dog Award after almost 120,000 votes were cast.In 2018, while on duty, the Belgian Malinois was hit by a suspect's car fleeing a crime scene, and one of her legs was amputated. When recovered, she visited officers to help with their wellbeing and inspired the launch of a trauma support service.Owner Mandy Chapman, who is a retired police dog handler, said: "She is an amazing dog through and through. Despite her disability and the terrible injuries she sustained, she has come through it all so well and finds joy in life, as well as giving joy in life, every single day."
The award was announced at the bp pulse LIVE arena, at the NEC in Birmingham, on the final day of Crufts, by campaigner Josephine Hamilton OBE and Paralympian, Ellie Simmonds OBE.Proud Mandy and Baloo, eight, were presented with their award and a cheque for £5,000 for their dog charity of choice – Essex Retired Police Dog Fund.
Baloo and Mandy worked with the College of Policing team to set up 'Oscar Kilo' wellbeing and trauma support dogs service. Now there are more than 250 canines involved with the scheme. They also visited schools, care homes and community groups to help mental health."You can see the difference she makes to people when she goes to see them," Mandy said."She proves that however hard things get, you can get through it. She is super soppy and sharing her is so rewarding, I love every second of it."Speaking about the win she added: "I can see why this competition goes to public vote, because who on earth could choose, but thank you to each and every person who has voted for her."Helen Kerfoot, Crufts show manager, said: "What Baloo has achieved, the courage she has shown, and the support she now gives others is extraordinary. "Mandy and Baloo's incredible bond and the work they do together is inspiring."
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