Retired police dog looks after handler's ill wife

A retired police dog has taken on a new role as a guardian and companion for her former handler's wife, who lives with multiple chronic health conditions.

Donja, a seven-year-old German Shepherd, served with the Ministry of Defence Police for three and a half years. She also supported operations with police forces in Hampshire and the Thames Valley.

However, she was diagnosed with degenerative spinal condition spondylosis and was adopted by her former handler, PC Ash Collins, and his wife Heidi, who suffers with endometriosis, fibromyalgia and polycystic ovary syndrome.

Mrs Collins, 40, said Donja - affectionately nicknamed "Donna Kebab" - instinctively sensed when she was unwell.

"She won't leave my side and insists on following me, keeping a close eye on me, and laying by my side when I'm feeling unwell," said Mrs Collins, who lives in Wiltshire.

"It's difficult for her to jump up onto the bed due to her back problems but, when I'm in pain and stuck in bed, she knows and will hop up to snuggle with me."

After recent surgery, Donja stayed close to her, offering comfort and emotional support.

"She knows how to cheer me up and when I need a smile she'll bring me a toy or nuzzle in for a cuddle," she said.

Donja, who patrolled military sites including RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire, is supported by the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, a charity that rehabilitates and protects serving and retired police dogs.

It pays for Donja's regular medication and provides her with free food through the charity's partnership with Barking Heads.

Charity chairman Kieran Stanbridge said: "After everything Donja has done, it's only fair that she gets to enjoy her retirement pain-free."

You can follow BBC Berkshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.