Skye, a border collie, completed 200 searches over her 11-year career in the Lake District before retiring in 2020 at the age of 14. She will be honored with the PDSA Order of Merit for her service.
Skye and her handler, John Leadbetter, 49, worked tirelessly to locate missing individuals in all weather conditions during her career. Starting as a puppy with the Bowland Pennine Mountain Rescue Team, Skye went on to work with various mountain rescue teams before retiring.
John Leadbetter expressed deep gratitude for Skye’s companionship and their partnership over the years. Skye’s contributions to mountain safety, both in rescues and raising awareness, are commendable. The PDSA director general praised Skye’s exceptional skills and dedication, highlighting her as a deserving recipient of the honor. Skye’s retirement is peaceful, enjoying her days with John Leadbetter and his family. Despite her age, she still loves being outdoors, though at a slower pace.
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