Dog Who Sustained Head Fracture During London Riots Honored

A police dog called 'Obi' is pictured with his handler, PC Phil Wells (AFP, Facundo Arrizabalaga)

Obi, a three-year-old German Shepherd, and his handler PC Phil Wells were bombarded with bottles, bricks and gas bombs while on the front line during the outbreak of the London Riots. Obi was hit by something, thought to be a brick, but showed no immediate signs of injury after the projectile struck. He continued to work crowd control with his handler for several more hours when blood was seen coming from his nose. The attack on Obi made international news because he was just there doing the job he was trained to do. According to the original reports there was too much being thrown around for officers to identify who exactly threw the object that hit and injured Obi.

He was taken directly to a vet for an assessment where it became known that he sustained a fracture to his skull above the left eye socket. Obi had to stay home (he lives with his handler’s family) in order for the fracture to heal during the rest of the London Riots. He was cleared for light duty and just recently was give the all clear to go back to the job that he clearly loves so much he was happy to continue doing it even when he was badly injured.

The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) gave Obi his special animal bravery award during their Animal Action Awards ceremony at the House of Lords, the upper house of parliament.

Robbie Marsland, UK Director of IFAW, said: “We are delighted to be able to highlight the amazing service given by police dogs such as Obi. He is a truly rewarding winner of our special Animal Bravery Award.”