04/05/2026
A Nottinghamshire police dog who was stabbed in the line of duty now faces the battle of rising vets bills, putting his ongoing care in retirement at risk.
Quantum joined Nottinghamshire Police in 2016 and was involved in more than 250 arrests and was honoured for his exceptional bravery in 2018 after he was stabbed in the face while detaining robbery suspects he had tracked from a stolen vehicle crash.
In 2020, he was injured again while apprehending a violent offender at Nottingham Train Station, where he was beaten with a piece of wood containing a nail.
Quantum retired in 2022 due to ill health and now lives with his former handler, PC Jen Ellse, alongside his sister Pip. While he enjoys a quieter life at home, he suffers from ongoing joint pain and mobility issues linked to his years on duty.
However, vets bills for the 10-year-old are continuing to soar after Hero Paws, a UK charity supporting retired military and police dogs, initially funded urgent dental treatment when other support wasn’t available.
Now, following his latest veterinary appointment, Quantum requires further investigations, with costs expected to run into the thousands. These tests could finally provide answers and improve his quality of life—but urgent support is needed to make this possible.
Jen, said: “I’ll do anything for him—whatever he needs to stay comfortable and happy. I’m incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of Hero Paws. I never have to face this alone; they’re always right there beside us, helping us find answers.”
Jaime Garner, COO of Hero Paws, said: “Quantum gave everything during his service—he faced danger head-on without hesitation. Like so many of these dogs, the job doesn’t stop when they retire. We are determined to make sure he gets the care he deserves, but we can’t do it without public support.”
Hero Paws is now calling on the public to help Quantum, with those interested in helping the former police dog urged to contact them.
