Forever in our hearts – Rest in peace Dodger

On the 6th November, The Horse Trust had had to say goodbye to a real favourite, 2015’s Mr January himself, Dodger. Dodger came to us for retirement two and a half years ago after 16 years of service with Greater Manchester Police.

This big, remarkably soppy boy was a huge hit with the team here and with all our visitors. He did have a bit of a reputation for having the stinkiest morning stable on the yard but we all adored him anyway. Dodger had an amazing career taking part in many parades and events including The Commonwealth Games 2002 and The Queen’s Golden Jubilee Celebrations. He protected the public during the Oldham and Manchester riots, as well as policing all major football grounds in Greater Manchester. He helped control crowds at the 1999 home coming parade when Manchester United won the treble. His last event was the Manchester Derby match in April 2013. Described by the GMP Mounted Branch as one of the best horses they have ever had, over time the Artful Dodger, to give him his full Dickensian name, developed several health problems. In particular he developed severe arthritis in his hocks and in his front feet that finally put an end to his working life. After a very happy retirement with us, Dodger developed an infection in his foot that no amount of treatment could resolve and sadly, this eventually got into his bone and we had to make the decision to let him go and be free from pain. He was such a cuddly, funny boy with his curly main and massive head always looking out to see what was occurring, we miss him hugely already, even the whiff! Thank you for your service Dodger and for your amazing presence here for your twilight days. You were greatly loved and will never be forgotten. Rest now big man, you earned it.