THE police dogs of north Wales have put their best paws forward for a charity calendar.

The 2019 calendar features dogs from the North Wales Police Dog Section and hopes to raise money for Paws Off Duty, the North Wales Police Retired Dogs Benevolent Fund, which was launched in September 2015.

The fund, established by PC Jackie Edwards, was created to assist with the day-to-day costs of looking after the animals as they clock ‘off-duty’ to retire. This includes the cost of veterinary expenses.

To date almost £10,000 has been raised.

Under police regulations, dogs used for general purpose or drugs work are paid for by the force until they retire, often between the ages of eight and 10 years old.

But once they leave the force, all funding from the force ceases, and all costs then sit with the dog’s handler, or if the dog has been re-homed, the new owner.

PC Edwards said: “Historically our calendars for the fund have been extremely popular and always receive overwhelming support from the public.

“We’d like to extend our sincerest thanks to the Farm and Pet Place for its continued support, the committee members and members of the public for their kind donations.

“Our dogs provide a fantastic service for our communities for the majority of their lives, and it’s only right they have the best possible life after retirement.”

When not striking poses, North Wales Police’s dog section searches open areas and buildings and helps with the search for missing people.

Specialist search dogs within the unit are also trained to detect firearms, ammunition, cash and drugs.

The calendars are £5.99 and they can be purchased via The Farm and Pet Place stores across north Wales or on the website at www.farmandpetplace.co.uk.