Bear, a 12-year-old German Shepherd, was being walked by his owner, former police officer Julia Pope, when he led her to dense undergrowth in the Eastbourne area.
Sensing something was wrong, Bear “went into work mode” and directed Pope to the man, who was cold, confused, and unable to stand.
“Stroke of luck”
Pope, who adopted Bear in 2020 after he retired from Sussex Police, described the rescue as “an amazing stroke of luck.” She added: “I’m not sure the man would have survived the night without Bear’s intervention.”
The individual, who had been reported missing, was safely assisted back to local officers and later reunited with his family.
Bear, who now works as a wellbeing and trauma support dog, has faced significant health challenges.
Hero Bear
Last summer, he underwent spinal surgery, supported by the Thin Blue Paw Foundation, and had further surgery to remove tumours just two weeks before the rescue.
Kieran Stanbridge, a trustee of the foundation, praised Bear’s instincts, saying: “Even in retirement, he’s still saving lives.”
Well done, Bear!
