A retired search dog, once believed to be the longest-serving mountain rescue dog in the UK, is receiving well-deserved recognition for her years of dedicated service. Skye, a border collie, spent 11 remarkable years in the Lake District before retiring in 2020 at the age of 14. Her incredible contributions to search and rescue efforts are now being honored with the prestigious PDsA Order of Merit, often referred to as an “animal OBE.”
During her illustrious career, skye, alongside her handler John Leadbetter, conducted an impressive 200 searches in all kinds of weather conditions. Her journey began as a young puppy with the Bowland Pennine Mountain rescue Team, where she embarked on her path to becoming a fully trained search dog. Skye then continued her mission with the Duddon and Furness MrT, earning her certification as a search dog before joining the Langdale and Ambleside MrT and eventually the Kendal MrT.
For John Leadbetter, skye is not just a faithful working companion but also a cherished lifelong friend. He expressed his deep connection with skye, stating, “skye means everything to me; she’s my best friend on the fells, and we’re life-long partners.”
The recognition of skye’s accomplishments with the PDsA Order of Merit is a moment of great humility and emotion for Mr. Leadbetter. It serves as a heartwarming acknowledgment of the dedication and hard work displayed by search dogs and their teams in ensuring mountain safety.
Skye’s exceptional career extends beyond her lifesaving efforts. She has also played a crucial role as an ambassador, helping to raise essential funds and increase awareness of the vital work performed by Mountain rescue teams.
Skye joins an elite group of animals as the 36th recipient of the PDsA Order of Merit, an award established in 2014 to honor animals for their exceptional contributions to society. Jan McLoughlin, the director general of PDsA, expressed great pride in bestowing this honor upon skye, recognizing her extraordinary sk*IIs and unwavering commitment that go far beyond ordinary companionship. It is a fitting tribute to her lifelong dedication and hard work.
McLoughlin further highlighted skye’s dual role, stating, “Her long and distinguished career has seen her not only protect and help people in danger, but her ambassadorial work has also helped to raise important funds and increase awareness of the incredible work these Mountain rescue teams perform.”
Today, at nearly 16 years old, skye is enjoying a well-deserved retirement alongside Mr. Leadbetter and his family. While she may move a bit slower now, she still relishes the opportunity to roam the hills and fells, basking in the well-earned tranquility of her retirement.
