Holly’s Well Earned Retirement

We don’t normally do retirement posts, maybe we should, but we’re making a special exception for Holly the search and rescue dog.

After 10 years alongside Gary Wright, Holly is quite rightly going to put her paws up and relax.

The duo are part of the Search and Rescue Dog Association and have enjoyed eight years on the search and rescue call list.

A post on SARDA’s Facebook page said: ‘We are sad to announce that after 10 years of service the time has come for Holly to hang up her search jacket and enjoy a well earned retirement. Gary Wright and Holly’s service has been invaluable to the Manx community, keeping people safe and bringing loved ones back to their families.

‘Holly has been a truly exceptional dog for SARDA IOM during her 8 years on the call-out list, with countless call-outs during that time. Holly’s Usain Bolt speed and incredible efficiency will certainly be missed by the team! Holly’s achievements throughout her career are made even more remarkable given that she was rescued by Gary when she was just a young pup – the rescued to the rescuer!’

While Holly is hanging up her jacket, Gary will be continuing with SARDA as a navigator, training coordinator and committee member.

The group added: ‘Gary’s experience will be vital whilst we continue to bring through new dog teams over the next few years. Everyone at SARDA IOM would like to thank Gary and his family for their support to search and rescue over the last 10 years.’