How the charity evolved

K9 Heroes was established in 2018 to help fund the physical rehabilitation and ongoing support of retired British service dogs.

The charity grew from the work of a leading team of Veterinary Physiotherapists and Hydrotherapists at Theravet in Hertfordshire. Founder Emma Craigie Halkett recognised a significant gap in care:

“I was working alongside an orthopaedic surgeon at the time and noticed a lack of structured support for retired service dogs in the UK.”

When service dogs retire, funding for medical treatment often ends — despite the physical demands their roles have placed on them. While other charities have since begun supporting general veterinary costs, specialist physical therapy remains different and often overlooked.

The reality of retirement

These extraordinary dogs have worked in challenging and sometimes extreme conditions. The long-term impact of service can include chronic injuries, early arthritis, muscle fatigue, spinal issues and reduced limb function.

Many retired service dogs have no insurance cover. Their handlers or adopters frequently face significant financial pressure when ongoing treatment or rehabilitation is required.

Retirement should be a time of comfort — not continued hardship.

What we fund

K9 Heroes exists to ensure that retired British service dogs can access the specialist therapies they need for a comfortable and dignified retirement.

We provide funding to owners and handlers for rehabilitative treatments including physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, massage, laser therapy, electrotherapies, osteopathy and chiropractic care.

British service dogs include those who have served in the Police and Armed Forces, Border Force, Mountain Rescue, Search and Rescue teams, Fire Service units, Bomb Disposal and Cadaver detection roles.

Leading the way

K9 Heroes is the first UK charity dedicated specifically to funding physical rehabilitation for retired service dogs. We are also the first to maintain a national register of professional rehabilitation centres and providers who offer reduced-rate treatment across the UK, ensuring consistent standards of care regardless of financial support from the charity.