Fire investigation dog Sherlock retires after 12-year career

London Fire Brigade has announced the retirement of its longest-serving fire investigation dog, Sherlock, following 12 years of service.

Sherlock, a Working Cocker Spaniel born in 2012, joined the Brigade at just ten weeks old and was certified as a fire investigation dog in 2013.

Over his career, he attended numerous incidents, including the Grenfell Tower fire, and assisted in key investigations.

Sherlock’s role involved detecting ignitable substances at fire scenes, aiding fire investigators in determining causes.

In recent years, he became an ambassador for fire safety, attending community events to promote awareness.

Sherlock’s training and contributions to fire investigations

The London Fire Brigade selects fire investigation dogs based on their strong drive to play, using positive reinforcement techniques during training.

Sherlock was trained to detect up to 10 different ignitable liquids, such as petrol and acetone, in various states.

Throughout his career, he attended major fire scenes, including a serious incident in Tottenham where two firefighters were injured and a murder investigation in New Malden.

His work supported fire investigators in determining causes and contributing to safety measures.

Retirement and continued care for Sherlock

Sherlock will retire at home with his handler, Group Commander Paul Osborne, who has cared for him throughout his service.

The London Retired Police Dogs Trust (LRPD) will provide financial support for his ongoing care.

Osborne said: “Following an illustrious and decorated career, Sherlock will be stepping down from LFB.

“He has been working at the Brigade for 12 years, and in that time has been influential in maintaining our dog handling capability way beyond his tenure as well as showing the other dogs the ropes.”

He added: “In dog years, Sherlock is 100 years old, so it’s only fitting for him to hang up his boots now and take a well-earned break.”

Fire investigation team continues its work

Despite Sherlock’s retirement, the London Fire Brigade’s Fire Investigation team continues its work with two other trained dogs.

Simba, aged eight, and Smokey, aged three, will remain in service, supporting fire investigations both within and outside of London.

Fire investigation dogs typically serve for around 10 years and undergo annual training refreshers to maintain their detection skills.

London Fire Brigade’s Sherlock retires after 12 years of service: Summary

London Fire Brigade has confirmed the retirement of its longest-serving fire investigation dog, Sherlock, after 12 years.

Born in 2012, Sherlock joined the Brigade as a puppy and was certified in 2013.

Over his career, he attended incidents, including the Grenfell Tower fire, and assisted investigators by detecting ignitable substances.

Sherlock’s training allowed him to identify up to 10 different substances, supporting fire scene analysis.

In recent years, he transitioned to a role as a fire safety ambassador.

Now retired, Sherlock will live with his handler, Group Commander Paul Osborne, who has cared for him throughout his career.

The London Retired Police Dogs Trust will provide financial support for his care.

The Brigade’s fire investigation team continues its work with two other dogs, Simba and Smokey, who remain in active service.

Fire investigation dogs typically serve for around 10 years and receive ongoing training to maintain their skills.