By Kevin Olsen | Pensions and Investments
Earlier this month, Police and Crime Commissioner Paddy Tipping approved setting up the Police Dog Pension Scheme to provide ongoing medical costs after the dogs retire from the force, whose headquarters is in Nottingham, England.
Nine of the 26 active police dogs are expected to retire between now and 2016, according to a spokeswoman for the police department. In retirement, they now will receive a pension of up to £500 ($805) for at least three years. The funds are meant to cover any medical expenses linked to work-related injuries or illness.
“Many of the force’s dogs are fit and healthy when they retire but need some medical treatment for injury or illness resulting from being worked hard while tackling crime,” Mr. Tipping said in a news release. “These dogs give willing and sterling service over the years in protecting the public so I am delighted to approve a scheme that will ensure continuing medical help once their work is done.”
Most police dogs remain with their handler at the family’s home after retirement.
Statement by Laura Bianchi, Chair of Rose Law Group Estate Planning/Asset Protection Department:
“For so many of us, our pets are an important member of the family, making it all the more important to establish a plan for guardianship and financial means to ensure your pet’s ongoing well-being, care, safety and comfort. Giving you the peace of mind that your beloved pets will never be abandoned, neglected, left to an animal shelter or worse.”
Have you set up such a plan for your pet? Comment below.