A Labrador's love for chasing squirrels may have stopped her becoming a guide dog, but she now has her paws in a new job.

Five-year-old River is now helping vulnerable people in Maidstone police custody.

River is Kent Police's newest recruit

Her kind and calm nature meant she was perfect for a new pilot project Kent Police is trialling at its Palace Avenue station.

Sergeant Ian Sutton, who is co-ordinating the initiative, said: "We are often dealing with people in crisis and although their behaviour has resulted in arrest, they could be suffering with depression, anxiety or mental illness.

"Young people may find themselves in custody too and in some cases they are scared and daunted by the experience, whilst others may have difficulty in communicating.

"Being detained can exacerbate these issues and we are committed to ensure that police custody is a safe and supportive environment for both police, staff and detainees.

"We are always looking for new or innovative ways to achieve this."

The custody canine will only be used for vulnerable detainees or those in need of support to help them be processed through custody.

In 2016 she was tested and accredited as a therapy dog by the Pets as Therapy organisation, she's since helped special educational needs children by spending time at a school.

River was then assessed by trainers at Kent Police's dog unit to ensure she had the temperament and resilience to deal with the unpredictable nature of the custody environment.

"River provides a therapeutic benefit to those in crisis and helps to counter some of the negative behaviour we sometimes experience in custody" - Ian Sutton

She successfully passed the assessment and since the beginning of the month has been regularly supporting people in custody.

PS Sutton added: "River has joined the team to offer emotional support to people who are experiencing difficulties, she provides a therapeutic benefit to those in crisis and helps to counter some of the negative behaviour we sometimes experience in custody.

"Since beginning work with us she has had a notable positive impact on those she has spent time and the atmosphere in custody improves when she is on shift.

"This allows staff and officers to use their time more effectively rather than diffusing situations.’

A handler will keep a watchful eye on River, making sure she's got plenty of water and food and giving her all the breaks she needs.

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