‘BGT:’ Heroic Police Dog Finn Dead At 14

ByAllie Johnson
Police Dog Finn BGT - YouTube

Tragic news for fans of Britain’s Got Talent as the heroic police dog named Finn, who stole the hearts of many, has been confirmed dead at the age of 14.

The heroic police dog named Finn won over the hearts of many when he appeared on the British talent show back in 2019. Standing beside his owner Dave Wardell, the world learned this beloved dog once got stabbed while saving the life of his owner.

Britain’s Got Talent: Heroic Police Dog Finn Dead At 14

During the police dog’s appearance on BGT back in 2019, Dave shared how the German Shepherd made the brave and swift decision to place himself between his owner and an assailant while they were on duty together. Finn reportedly suffered pretty serious injuries as he got stabbed multiple times while protecting his owner from the attack. Fortunately, Finn survived the gruesome attack.

Sadly, The Sun reports it has been confirmed that Dave Wardell’s furry best friend recently passed away.

The Thin Paw Foundation, a national charity that provides support and services for retired police dogs such as Finn, issued an official statement paying tribute to the heroic canine stating that he had left behind a “huge legacy.” 

We’re deeply sad to announce the passing of our Ambassador, Retired Police Dog Finn at the age of 14. He leaves a huge legacy behind, having saved the life of his handler PC Dave Wardell on duty, whilst he himself had been stabbed multiple times. Following his recovery, Finn and Dave then went on to campaign for Finn’s law which gave greater protection for service animals across the United Kingdom.

Below is the official statement the organization penned on Twitter, which included photos of the beloved canine:

He Had Been With Dave Since He Was A Puppy

According to The Sun, Finn was placed in the home of Dave Wardell when he was just a puppy. The duo quickly formed a loving bond. After the police dog Finn and his owner appeared on BGT, Dave kicked off a campaign with the hopes of changing how the law handles people who attack animals.

Dave and Finn played a role in extending the Animal Welfare Act of 2006. Ultimately, Finn and his owner were successful in their campaign, and the prison sentence for attacking animals was increased from just six months behind bars to five years.

Tributes for the police dog have come flooding in on multiple social media platforms as those who had the pleasure of watching his appearance on BGT and those who learned of his story were heartbroken for his owner.

One fan of Finn penned on Twitter: “I had the utter pleasure of meeting Finn with his daddy at a dog event (I want to say it was Dog’s Fest but I could be wrong). He was a beautiful brave young man, and the work he & his dad did to change legislation was long overdue”

“RIP Finn. Sincere condolences Mr. Wardell. I still remember with delight your appearance on Britain’s Go Talent. You had one remarkable dog whom I know meant the world to you, and to us.” Another chimed in.

A third added thanking Finn and his owner for the changes they made to offer more protection for animals against cruelty: “Thank you for your service, dedicating your life to helping others. And on behalf of the countless animals, who get increased protection and justice, due to your law…”

Rest in peace, Finn. BGT fans’ thoughts and prayers are with Dave Wardell as he mourns the loss of his friend.

Allie Johnson
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