Force mourns 'formidable' friend

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The first Rottweiler to be used as a police dog in Scotland has died after being diagnosed with bone cancer.

Central Scotland Police paid tribute to six-year-old Mac, who joined the force in 2003.

During his time with the force Mac was instrumental in catching 206 criminals and locating 31 missing people and £69,000 of stolen property.

Handler Pc Jonathan Inglis described him as a great ambassador for the Rottweiler breed.

Mac was taken to the vet after developing a limp and was diagnosed with cancer just after the new year. He was put to sleep on 16 January.

Together we apprehended hundreds of people, recovered thousands of pounds of stolen property and more importantly found a lot of missing persons, in some instances saving lives Pc Jonathan Inglis

Sgt Cameron Shanks, of Central Scotland Police's dog section, paid tribute to him.

He said: "It was a shock how quickly his illness took over. We are all very upset at the loss.

"He was very obedient and reacted very quickly to his handler's commands. He had a massive presence due to his stature and was exceptionally loyal."

Mac was found wandering in an industrial estate in Falkirk in 2003 and taken to a pound. When no-one claimed him he was taken to the Dog Section at Central Scotland Police and placed with Pc Inglis and his family.

He distinguished himself during his police training in Strathclyde in 2003, being named best dog on the course.

'Happy animal'

Mac attended 1,785 calls throughout the force area during his career.

Pc Inglis said: "Mac was a fantastic police dog and a great ambassador for the Rottweiler breed.

"Together we apprehended hundreds of people, recovered thousands of pounds of stolen property and more importantly found a lot of missing persons, in some instances saving lives.

"Mac was an exceptional dog when at home with my family and I. He was placid, gentle, very sociable and was part of the family.

"He will be missed greatly by a lot of people, but most of all he will be missed by me".

Sgt Shanks added: "Mac and Pc Inglis were a formidable team. We take great pride in the fact that Mac was rescued from the dog pound and turned into one of the most effective police dogs the force has ever had.

"His time with us was enjoyable for everyone, especially the dog himself who was a very happy animal. He will be sadly missed by everyone."