POLICE dogs of North Wales have put their best paws forward posing for a charity calendar.

The 2019 calendar features dogs from the North Wales Police Dog Section.

It is hoped sale of the calendar will raise funds for ‘Paws Off Duty’ - the North Wales Police Retired Dogs Benevolent Fund, launched in September, 2015.

The fund, established by PC Jackie Edwards from the force’s dog section, was devised to assist with the day to day costs of looking after the animals when they clock-off duty to retire. The fund, which helps with veterinary expenses, has so far raised almost £10,000.

Under police regulations, dogs used for general purpose or drugs work are paid for by the force until they retire. Afterwards, funding from the force ceases, and the dog’s handler or new owner, picks up the costs.

PC Jackie Edwards of the Dog Section said: “Historically our calendars for the Off Duty 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 their continued support, and also a huge thank you to the committee members and to public for their kind donations.

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

The force's canine colleagues help with tracking offenders, search open areas and buildings, and help with the search for missing persons. Specialist search dogs within the unit are also trained to detect firearms, ammunition, cash and drugs.

The calendars are £5.99. They can be purchased via The Farm and Pet Place stores across North Wales or see website https://www.farmandpetplace.co.uk/products/pet/dog/paws-off-duty/paws-off-duty-calendar-2019-donation.html?fbclid=IwAR3aVyUGuBGY3hVa0-JJEi58FmF2aluU4YQaQwG5bgyJ1wh2rVPCkoN8V8U

Find out more about the Paws Off Duty Fund via their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pawsoffduty/