A retired search dog, once recognized as the UK’s longest-serving mountain rescue canine, has been honored for her remarkable service.
Skye, a border collie, served in the Lake District for 11 years before retiring in 2020 at the age of 14.
In recognition of her dedication, Skye will receive the PDSA Order of Merit, often referred to as the “animal OBE.”
During her service, Skye and her handler, John Leadbetter, 49, searched for missing persons in all kinds of weather.
Skye began her journey as a puppy with the Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team. She later trained as a search dog with Duddon and Furness MRT before moving on to Langdale and Ambleside MRT, and finally, Kendal MRT.
“Skye means the world to me; she’s my best friend on the fells, and we’re partners for life,” Mr. Leadbetter said.
“Watching her receive the PDSA Order of Merit is incredibly humbling and emotional. It’s a fantastic acknowledgment of the dedication and effort that search dogs and their teams put into ensuring mountain safety.”
Throughout her impressive and extensive career, Skye has not only protected and assisted individuals in peril but has also raised funds and increased awareness through her role as an ambassador.
She is the 36th animal to receive the PDSA Order of Merit, which was established in 2014 to recognize animals for their outstanding contributions to society.
“We are delighted to present the PDSA Order of Merit to Skye,” said Jan McLoughlin, the director general of the PDSA.
“Her remarkable skills and dedication, which go far beyond ordinary companionship, make her a truly deserving recipient. This award is a fitting tribute to her lifelong commitment and hard work.”
“Her long and esteemed career has not only involved protecting and assisting those in peril, but her ambassadorial efforts have also contributed significantly to fundraising and raising awareness about the vital work carried out by Mountain Rescue teams.”
Skye began her training as a puppy with the Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team before joining the Lake District Mountain Rescue Search Dog Association.
Throughout her career, she searched in the Lake District, Lancashire, the Pennines, and Scotland.
Now over 16 years old, she enjoys her retirement with Mr. Leadbetter and his family, who note that she still loves being out on the hills and fells, albeit at a more leisurely pace.
