Two West Midlands Police Federation members have spoken of their enjoyment at being involved in the National Police Dog Trials last week as their performances earned plaudits including a special award.

PC Mike Henry, together with Police Dog Archer, clinched The National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA) Trophy Award for their ‘outstanding enthusiasm and greatest determination’ over the course of the four-day contest in Stirling, Scotland.

Mike, who became Archer’s handler six years ago, has shared his delight at the win: “I was very surprised, I must admit, because the standard of competition was very high. To receive the award is very pleasing and it shows how well and how hard Archer and I work together.”

In what was their first experience of Police Dog Trials, the 2024 Trials campaign has proven to be a resounding success for the duo after they were also named overall winners at the West Midlands’ regional round.

“A few times in the past, I’ve been encouraged by colleagues on dog units at other Force branches to go for it, and I’m so happy we did this year,” Mike continued.

 

PC Mike Henry, together with Police Dog Archer.

 

“A lot of the trial requirements are what we train for operationally anyway, but I have worked with Archer in my own time to polish up on our skills and get to those high levels you need. I’ve definitely found that you get out what you put in.”

In among their success at the nationals, Mike, 44, admitted some nerves did creep in at various points over the four days – thankfully, only in his case, and not in German Shepherd Archer’s.

“I’ve found with trials that you can put pressure on yourself to do well, but you have to channel those nerves and make sure they don’t go down the lead to the dog itself. Archer was completely unfazed and did amazingly well.

“I’m so proud of him, to be honest. He’s such a good boy, both in working life and home life. Our relationship is second-to-none – he looks out for me and I look out for him.”

The constable reiterated his happiness at the pair’s award win, paying tribute to the charity behind the prize.

“The NFRSA are a great cause. They care so well for animals who have given their lives to the Police Force, so I am even more honoured to win the award,” he added.

Another German Shepherd, three-year-old Dredd, and his handler PC Harmesh Loi also did the Federation proud from 20 to 23 May up in Stirling.

The Trials featured three testing phases: phase one assessed tracking, phase two focused on searching, and phase three scrutinised agility and obedience, with Harmesh and Dredd performing admirably throughout.

 

Mike and Archer (left) along with Dredd, and his handler PC Harmesh Loi.

 

Reflecting on the experience, PC Loi said: “I fully enjoyed the nationals – they were stressful, but only because I wanted to do the best. It felt great to be a part of and to be joined by so many other passionate handlers.

“I’ve had Dredd since he was a puppy and he is just an excellent example of a working dog. His loyalty and affection towards me means we are able to have a super relationship and take on things such as performance trials.”

Chief Inspector of West Midlands Police Operations, Dan Lowe, who oversaw the region’s participation as the head of its dog unit, has praised both pairs of handlers and dogs.

“We are immensely proud of our entrants for their efforts last week. To get to the nationals is phenomenal, but to perform on the day is another thing altogether.

 

Mike and Archer's award.

 

“Archer and Dredd are not show dogs, but working dogs, and they have to be trained to very high levels to become police officers themselves, so I must give credit to Mike and Harmesh for their commitment.

“By being involved in these trials, they are showcasing the trade of police dogs and therefore the Police Force as a whole in an outstanding manner.”

Dan also looked forward to next year’s National Trials, set to be held in Birmingham: “We are very excited to host the nationals next year and to welcome dogs and handlers from all over the UK. If the standard is anywhere near what it was this year, then we are certainly in for a treat.

“I have seen recently that the Police Dog Trials community is one full of dedication and enthusiasm, and that should be celebrated within the Force. We can’t wait to do exactly that in 12 months’ time,” he ended.

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