Police dog Zoe retires after injury in Southport disorder

A police dog named Zoe has retired after sustaining an injury during a violent incident in Southport on July 30. The disorder erupted following the tragic stabbing of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class the day before. Zoe suffered a laceration to her leg, requiring stitches, but is now reported to be fit and well. Mersey Police Dogs announced that they would not ask any dog to continue service if they no longer wished to do so. The violent disorder involved hundreds of people and resulted in injuries to over 50 police officers. In addition to Zoe, other police dogs were also injured during the chaos. A dog named Ike sustained a cut mouth and swelling, while another dog, Quga, suffered burns to her back leg. Fortunately, Repo, another police dog, was unharmed after its handler intervened to protect it from petrol. Mersey Police Dogs expressed their sadness over the targeting of their officers and dogs during the incident, highlighting the extreme bravery displayed by the animals in assisting their human counterparts. Following the incident, Quga has been reunited with her handler after a slow recovery and is expected to return to duty soon. The retirement of Zoe marks a significant moment for Mersey Police Dogs, as they reflect on the bravery and service of their canine officers. The organization has expressed gratitude for Zoe's contributions and wishes her happiness in her retirement.