Lake District mountain rescue dog retires after eight years

Isla first joined the Keswick MRT back in 2016 though she passed her final assessment in December 2015.

The Lake District Mountain Rescue Search Dogs Association paid tribute to Isla's efforts over the years, stating that she had made a 'significant contribution to saving lives' across Cumbria's fells.

Association Secretary and Trustee Emma Atherton said: "On behalf of the Association, I’d like to take this opportunity to say a massive thank you to Martin [Bell, Isla's trainer] and to Isla for their dedication over many years, many call outs and searches, and countless training sessions.

"I was so proud and chuffed for them both when Isla had that spectacular find last year, what a fantastic highlight to a long search career.

"She now deservedly gets to rest her paws and demand biscuits at any time.”

Isla during a rescue mission in 2018 (Image: Keswick MRT)

Isla will be turning 12 years old next week, which means she will be more than happy to let the younger generation take on the responsibility.

She first qualified as a fully-fledged search dog having trained with the association for three years.

A spokesperson from the association added: "Isla, famous for being a Labrador in disguise - for eating everything - is well known for hunting out treats at every opportunity.

"As Isla’s human, Martin is an sssessor for the association so I’m sure we will continue to see lots of Isla at weekly and monthly training sessions."

Isla has helped save plenty of lives since 2016 (Image: Keswick MRT)

The association continued to share its congratulations to Isla for such a long career, as well as thanking her for the contributions she made along the way.

"Thank you and we all hope you have a long-lasting retirement.

"Isla can now continue to lay by the fire as some of our younger dogs battle the Lake District weather to help save lives."