A two-year-old Essex Police dog forced into early retirement after her leg had to be amputated is looking for a new home.

Belgian Malinois Baloo was sent to the theft of a motor vehicle with handler PC Ross Ashcroft in October when she was hit by a car.

She suffered a broken pelvis and a badly broken leg, which needed emergency surgery.

Her right front leg had to be amputated so she can no longer work as a police dog.

PC Ashcroft said: “She has been a brilliant dog both at work and at home. As confident as she was at work, she was an absolute softy when taken out of work, who wanted nothing more than attention and cuddles.

“She was a very loyal protective dog and loved life as a police dog.”

Baloo is now searching for a new life with a new family.

PC Ashcroft hopes she can find a loving home to enjoy a well-earned rest after her service.

Baloo has been key in bringing crooks to justice.

A police spokesman said: “She followed her nose to sniff out two violent suspects trying to hide after they attacked a woman with a weapon.

“She’s tracked suspects for considerable distances and found them hiding under cars and in bushes, and the clever canine has sniffed her way to find discarded weapons including large knives.”

Prospective owners can get help with any vet bills through the Essex Retired Police Dogs Fund.

If you can provide a home for Baloo, contact Sgt Trevor Edhouse at 42002664@essex.pnn.police.uk.