Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. No human or, for that matter, animal is aware of their heroic capability until placed in an extraordinary situation requiring extraordinary action. The PDSA Gold Medal recognises this.
Quite simply the PDSA Gold Medal is the highest honour for outstanding animal bravery and exceptional dedication in civilian life. Eligibility is open to any animal instrumental in saving human or animal life when its own life is in jeopardy or to any animal killed or seriously injured while carrying out official duties in the face of armed and violent opposition.
The Medal itself bears a depiction of a laurel wreath and the words ‘for gallantry and devotion to duty’. Instituted in 2002, the Medal is now widely recognised as the animals’ George Cross.
To date all twelve recipients of the PDSA Gold Medal have been dogs. Each of these canine heroes has proven that they are indeed man’s best friend.
Roll of Honour
Ghillie, a two-year-old Springer Spaniel from Kirkwall, Orkney was presented with a PDSA Gold Medal on 20 December 2007 for saving the life of his owner’s elderly mother.
At a special ceremony at St. James's Palace in London on 3 July 2007, Police explosives search dogs Vinnie, Billy and Jake were presented with their PDSA Gold medals for their live-saving work following the terrorist attacks on London in July 2005.
On 5 April 2006, at the West Yorkshire Police Dog Training School in Wakefield, Police dog Blue, Police dog Zoltan and Canine Partner Orca were presented with their PDSA Gold Medals for animal bravery and devotion to duty.
This was followed by a presentation to Northern Ireland Search and Rescue dogs Dylan and Cracker at Belfast Castle on 27 June 2006.
On 22 July 2006, Royal Norwegian Navy mascot Bamse was recognised for his bravery and devotion to duty to the crew of the Thorodd during World War II. The presentation was held at the House of Dun in Montrose, Scotland. Montrose can also boast a larger-than-life bronze of Bamse which was unveiled by HRH the Duke of York on 17 October 2006.
In November 2002 PDSA Gold Medals were awarded to three extraordinary dogs: Canine Partner Endal and Police dogs Metpol Delta Monty and Bulla.
Who decides?
Awards are approved by PDSA Council following receipt of an official citation, supported by a corroborative witness statement or a character statement.
To request more information about PDSA Gold Medal please use the Animal Award contact form.
