In November 2020, Stark received 20 machete blows during a routine check carried out at Handsworth (England) with his partner, the officer Paul Hopley. During this attack, the black German Shepherd/Malinois cross was mainly injured in the head. The weapon notably grazed one of his eyes.
Even if he received a rain of blows, Stark did not let go of the suspect and did not abandon his mission. Thanks to his determination, his teammate was able to put the individual behind bars.
Do you have a pet?
© Thin Blue Paw
Rushed to the veterinarian following the arrest, the 3-year-old police dog at the time received treatment allowing him to make a full recovery. Due to his heroic act, the brave pooch was not only praised by his human colleagues but also received an award.
Stark returned to work a few months later, and contributed to the arrest of other criminals.
© West Midlands Police
“We developed a very special bond”
As we explained to you in a previous article, Stark always lived with the officer Hopleyhis wife and their 2 children. After 6 years of good and loyal service, the animal will retire in 2025 like its teammate.
Also read: As soon as her owners brought an orphaned kid home, this deaf dog volunteered to become its new mother (video)
According to an article in the BBCthe animal will stay with him. “ Stark is truly part of our family and I look forward to spending even more time with him when I retire, declares the officer, he will be spoiled rotten! »
« I couldn’t ask for a better dog to be with me, he concludes, we have had many memorable moments over the years and have developed a very special bond. »
