The TVP and Hampshire PCCs have collectively awarded more than £48,000 for the initiative.

All dog section vehicles across the TVP and Hampshire force areas will now be kitted out with first aid equipment following funding from the two PCCs. 

Defibrillators, awirway management equipment and equipment to deal with catastrophic bleeds will be among that provided by £48,992 worth of funding. 

The two PCCs have said that dog handlers are often first on the scene of calls and that it is therefore important they have the equipment to make lifesaving interventions. 

Donna Jones, Police & Crime Commissioner for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, said: “Dog Units can often be the first to respond to emergency situations so it is vital they have the equipment they need to deal with any trauma or medical situation they face.

“Ultimately, this kind of equipment will help officers save lives and I am really pleased to fund the purchase which will no doubt keep communities in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight safer.”

Matthew Barber, Police & Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, said: “This scheme will provide potentially life-saving equipment and I am delighted to be able to support this additional first aid equipment to all of our dog section vehicles.

“Dog handlers attend a range of incidents and their ability to deploy this equipment when arriving on scene can make a real difference to keeping our communities safe across Thames Valley.”

The TVP Fed Chair, Craig O’Leary, told Police Oracle that they are “pleased”  with the initiative, underlining that Dog Section officers patrol right across the force, meaning they will sometimes be able to reach victims long before paramedics get there. 

“If they can commence lifesaving opportunities as early as possible then that can only be good for the patient,” he added.