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Fabulous Finn: The Brave Police Dog Who Came Back from the Brink
Hertfordshire, October 5th 2016. At around 2 a.m., PC Dave Wardell and his dog, PD Finn, were trying to apprehend a robbery suspect when he turned around and attacked them. Finn was stabbed with a ten-inch-bladed knife, both through his chest, via his armpit and then - the knife bound for Dave - through the top of his head. Finn no doubt saved Dave's life, but the race was on to try and save Finn's.
Dave Wardell's heartfelt memoir charts an incredible journey of friendship and loyalty. It is a celebration of the bond between one man and his dog, from when Dave collected Finn from his kennels at just nine months old, all the way through to Finn's recent and hard-earned retirement. The book charts the career of a highly trained, highly decorated dog. In his time on the job Finn tracked offenders of all kinds; found missing children; tackled armed offenders; saved lives. But Finn isn't just a police dog - he's also a cherished family pet and this is his remarkable, life-affirming story.
336 pages, Paperback
Published September 3, 2019
87 people are currently reading
386 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
August 16, 2020
A most interesting and often emotional account, this book is a true story by a modern day police dog handler about his dog Finn who was knifed by a criminal in his line of duty. The book covers much information about police dogs and their handlers alongside the personal story of the beautiful German Shepherd dog Finn who received a life threatening knife wound whilst protecting his police handler and aiding in the capture of a criminal. The special relationship between the police handlers and their dogs is brought out so strongly in the book which is written by Finn's handler who examines this unique relationship between a police handler and his dog who without a moment's hesitation did his duty with unwavering loyalty. The criminal who so brutally knifed this brave dog apparently received four months for whatever his crime was and nothing at all for knifing the dog. It makes you think!!!
February 28, 2019
The Inspirational Life of Britain's Bravest DogWinner of the 2017 Daily Mirror Animal Hero of the Year AwardHertfordshire, October 5th 2016.
At around 2 a.m., PC Dave Wardell and his dog, PD Finn, were trying to apprehend a robbery suspect when he turned around and attacked them. Finn was stabbed with a ten-inch-bladed knife, both through his chest, via his armpit and then - the knife bound for Dave - through the top of his head. Finn no doubt saved Dave's life, but the race was on to try and save Finn's.
Dave Wardell's heartfelt memoir charts an incredible journey of friendship and loyalty. It is a celebration of the bond between one man and his dog, from when Dave collected Finn from his kennels at just nine months old, all the way through to Finn's recent and hard-earned retirement. The book charts the career of a highly trained, highly decorated dog. In his time on the job Finn tracked offenders of all kinds; found missing children; tackled armed offenders; saved lives. But Finn isn't just a police dog - he's also a cherished family pet and this is his remarkable, life-affirming story.
Having read this book I am appalled at the sentence given to this individual who wounded Finn.
What becomes apparent early on is the amazing bond that exists between Dave and Finn.
The book also highlights the need for a change in the law so that all service animals have protection - FinnsLaw!
Dave explains from a policeman but also from a normal human being a story of friendship, love, loyalty and heartfelt heartbreak, this is Finn's story but also a story of a normal hard working family, a normal family leading a busy but happy life. A family of animal lovers who's life changes one late night.
I adore my animals, and like so many people who read this book though know exactly how it would feel if this happened to their own pets, devastating, heartbreaking and a long road back.
Yes I know a four star book from me, due to sometimes going backwards and forwards too much, otherwise I did enjoy the book.
Can I have one....
At around 2 a.m., PC Dave Wardell and his dog, PD Finn, were trying to apprehend a robbery suspect when he turned around and attacked them. Finn was stabbed with a ten-inch-bladed knife, both through his chest, via his armpit and then - the knife bound for Dave - through the top of his head. Finn no doubt saved Dave's life, but the race was on to try and save Finn's.
Dave Wardell's heartfelt memoir charts an incredible journey of friendship and loyalty. It is a celebration of the bond between one man and his dog, from when Dave collected Finn from his kennels at just nine months old, all the way through to Finn's recent and hard-earned retirement. The book charts the career of a highly trained, highly decorated dog. In his time on the job Finn tracked offenders of all kinds; found missing children; tackled armed offenders; saved lives. But Finn isn't just a police dog - he's also a cherished family pet and this is his remarkable, life-affirming story.
Having read this book I am appalled at the sentence given to this individual who wounded Finn.
What becomes apparent early on is the amazing bond that exists between Dave and Finn.
The book also highlights the need for a change in the law so that all service animals have protection - FinnsLaw!
Dave explains from a policeman but also from a normal human being a story of friendship, love, loyalty and heartfelt heartbreak, this is Finn's story but also a story of a normal hard working family, a normal family leading a busy but happy life. A family of animal lovers who's life changes one late night.
I adore my animals, and like so many people who read this book though know exactly how it would feel if this happened to their own pets, devastating, heartbreaking and a long road back.
Yes I know a four star book from me, due to sometimes going backwards and forwards too much, otherwise I did enjoy the book.
Can I have one....
August 13, 2023
So when I like a book, I give it 5 stars, but then what do I do when a book is really remarkable? For me, I put it in my category of dogs-favorite-books, which to me means in the category of best dog books of all time. That is what Fabulous Finn is. I have read about 300 books on dogs now and have found about 25 I put in that category.
As always, I won't give a recap of what the book is about, the summary can do that, I just tell you what I like. It was an exciting book that I would want to read again. There was some great stories about tracking and catching the 'baddies.' There was some information on training. The main person was a great person you would want to shake his hand and be friends with. The dog was amazing and real life amazing. It is why I overall prefer a good non-fiction book on dogs versus a fiction one as real dogs are so amazing you don't need to fake a story. I also loved his writing and copied out several quotes to add here in GR. Here is an example:
"As an instructor, when making such a decision for someone else, you always ask yourself, would I work with that dog?
I asked it now, knowing the qualities I look for. I want a dog who is brave, indefatigable and obedient, but also one with enough will and personality to make some decisions themselves. I want a dog who’ll have the confidence to tell me when I’m wrong. Who’ll keep pulling on even when I’m trying to pull the other way because some well-meaning human has given me duff info. In short I’d want a Finn. A dog who never walked in a perfectly straight line for any trials judge but who I knew would protect me till his very last breath. A dog who’d drag me through rivers and streams, thick mud and tangled undergrowth – drag me anywhere, if it meant we’d get our man."
I will attempt at thinking of what critics might come up with. It is not all one thing, not all the story of the dog that gets injured on the job and has to survive and go back to duty, not all the transformation of the handler, not all stories of successfully getting their man. Some may want more of one or less of another, or somehow a better transition between them, but it worked well for me and liked it all. Well, more cool stories of getting their baddie would always be nice.
And for those wimps out there, no Kleenex is needed at the end of the book.
As always, love to hear from others what they consider the best dog books of all time.
As always, I won't give a recap of what the book is about, the summary can do that, I just tell you what I like. It was an exciting book that I would want to read again. There was some great stories about tracking and catching the 'baddies.' There was some information on training. The main person was a great person you would want to shake his hand and be friends with. The dog was amazing and real life amazing. It is why I overall prefer a good non-fiction book on dogs versus a fiction one as real dogs are so amazing you don't need to fake a story. I also loved his writing and copied out several quotes to add here in GR. Here is an example:
"As an instructor, when making such a decision for someone else, you always ask yourself, would I work with that dog?
I asked it now, knowing the qualities I look for. I want a dog who is brave, indefatigable and obedient, but also one with enough will and personality to make some decisions themselves. I want a dog who’ll have the confidence to tell me when I’m wrong. Who’ll keep pulling on even when I’m trying to pull the other way because some well-meaning human has given me duff info. In short I’d want a Finn. A dog who never walked in a perfectly straight line for any trials judge but who I knew would protect me till his very last breath. A dog who’d drag me through rivers and streams, thick mud and tangled undergrowth – drag me anywhere, if it meant we’d get our man."
I will attempt at thinking of what critics might come up with. It is not all one thing, not all the story of the dog that gets injured on the job and has to survive and go back to duty, not all the transformation of the handler, not all stories of successfully getting their man. Some may want more of one or less of another, or somehow a better transition between them, but it worked well for me and liked it all. Well, more cool stories of getting their baddie would always be nice.
And for those wimps out there, no Kleenex is needed at the end of the book.
As always, love to hear from others what they consider the best dog books of all time.
September 29, 2020
This is an exceptional and awe-inspiring book that reminds us of how heroic German Shepherd police dogs, and Finn, in particular, really are. His handler claims that all the successes that the pair of them achieved working together were mostly because of Finn`s incredible bravery and tracking skills, and describes himself as just ` the dope at the end of the rope`. Once Finn managed to identify a scent he took off immediately wherever it lead and the policeman had to follow on as fast as possible, having to overcome all hurdles and obstacles no matter how difficult or painful for the human being, not having a dog`s thick fur coat for protection, or the strength and agility to safely negotiate difficult terrain.
The adventures that they both shared were exciting and also extremely emotional to read about, especially at the beginning when in attempting to detain a suspect that had managed to hide a lethal weapon, both handler and dog came under attack and Finn saved his handler`s life in spite of receiving life threatening injuries himself. As a result of this incident Finn became very well known and celebrated on social media, and was the catalyst for a petition set up, known as Finn`s law, which I myself remember seeing and signing, to give police dogs more status within the law, not just regarding them as `property` but as sentient beings deserving of more protection and harsher sentencing penalties awarded to anyone guilty of inflicting harm or damage to a police dog in the process of their illegal activities.
I certainly learned a great deal about how police dogs are selected and trained for the special role they have within the police force in order to protect the public and catch the `baddies`, but the special relationship they have with their handlers is not to be missed.
The adventures that they both shared were exciting and also extremely emotional to read about, especially at the beginning when in attempting to detain a suspect that had managed to hide a lethal weapon, both handler and dog came under attack and Finn saved his handler`s life in spite of receiving life threatening injuries himself. As a result of this incident Finn became very well known and celebrated on social media, and was the catalyst for a petition set up, known as Finn`s law, which I myself remember seeing and signing, to give police dogs more status within the law, not just regarding them as `property` but as sentient beings deserving of more protection and harsher sentencing penalties awarded to anyone guilty of inflicting harm or damage to a police dog in the process of their illegal activities.
I certainly learned a great deal about how police dogs are selected and trained for the special role they have within the police force in order to protect the public and catch the `baddies`, but the special relationship they have with their handlers is not to be missed.
February 9, 2018
Having followed the story as well as meeting Dave and Finn, to see their bond, this was a must read.
I’ve spent most of the book in tears. This is a truly amazing read where you feel like you are running along with Dave and experiencing the incident and Finn’s recovery alone him.
It also introduces readers to the background of a handler, a PD, how the bond is formed and the training involved.
A book I struggled to put down even though the tears flowed, would thoroughly recommend this to anyone.
I’ve spent most of the book in tears. This is a truly amazing read where you feel like you are running along with Dave and experiencing the incident and Finn’s recovery alone him.
It also introduces readers to the background of a handler, a PD, how the bond is formed and the training involved.
A book I struggled to put down even though the tears flowed, would thoroughly recommend this to anyone.
August 7, 2021
In the United Kingdom, there exists a dark underbelly plagued by a menacing criminal element. Yet, there is a daring band of men and women sworn to shed the light of justice on this scourge and keep the Queen’s peace. The U.K. has a force of approximately seventeen thousand police officers (known as Constables) tasked to handle a myriad of challenging and dangerous situations. Like their compatriots in the United States, an elite few are partnered with Man’s Best Friend. Great Britain has only fifteen hundred dog handlers, trained to respond to everything from quelling riots, detecting illegal drugs and explosives, to finding lost children, mental patients, and apprehending violent criminals.
The bond forged between man and dog is unlike any other in law enforcement. Prepared to face off against the worst of the worst, police dogs and their handlers must be ready for anything fate can throw at them. One of the most famous of his Majesty’s police dogs is none other than a bold and fiercely-loyal German Shepherd, “Finn.” A member of the Herefordshire Police Service’s Dog Squad, Finn and his handler Dave Wardell have an impeccable pedigree.
However, even the most experienced dog team can fall victim to tragedy. On the night of October 5th 2016, Constable Wardell and Finn’s unshakable bond is put to the ultimate test in a violent encounter with an armed assailant who savagely attacked Finn and Constable Wardell. The incident leaves Finn critically-injured and Dave Wardell wounded with a laceration to his wrist. In a mad dash to the hospital, Police Service Dog Finn is fighting for his life and the close-knit fraternity of men and women in blue is rocked to the core. It takes an incredible outpouring of love and support on the part of the public and first responders to see handler and dog through to the end.
Finn’s harrowing brush with death and his miraculous journey home is chronicled in the inspiring memoir “Fabulous Finn: The Brave Police Dog Who Came Back from the Brink.” Written by the man who knows him best, Dave Wardell and co-authored by Sunday Times ghostwriter/novelist Lynne Barrett-Lee, the amazing canine duo of Finn and Dave is immortalized in their incredible life story that’s the stuff of Hollywood. Make no mistake, the dangers police officers confront are real, the raw emotions they have when one of their own is injured in the line of duty are extreme, and the surprising compassion millions of people have for the brave police dogs who serve with them can inspire a nation in the darkest of times.
“Fabulous Finn” is a no-holds barred, unflinching glimpse into the world of a police dog handler and his devoted canine partner. The United Kingdom even passed “Finn’s Law” effective June 8th 2019 which guarantees harsher sentences for offenders who injure or killed law enforcement animals. Reading this book was an absolute joy, even my dog literally stuck his nose into it! A must-read for dog lovers and handlers, young and old.
The bond forged between man and dog is unlike any other in law enforcement. Prepared to face off against the worst of the worst, police dogs and their handlers must be ready for anything fate can throw at them. One of the most famous of his Majesty’s police dogs is none other than a bold and fiercely-loyal German Shepherd, “Finn.” A member of the Herefordshire Police Service’s Dog Squad, Finn and his handler Dave Wardell have an impeccable pedigree.
However, even the most experienced dog team can fall victim to tragedy. On the night of October 5th 2016, Constable Wardell and Finn’s unshakable bond is put to the ultimate test in a violent encounter with an armed assailant who savagely attacked Finn and Constable Wardell. The incident leaves Finn critically-injured and Dave Wardell wounded with a laceration to his wrist. In a mad dash to the hospital, Police Service Dog Finn is fighting for his life and the close-knit fraternity of men and women in blue is rocked to the core. It takes an incredible outpouring of love and support on the part of the public and first responders to see handler and dog through to the end.
Finn’s harrowing brush with death and his miraculous journey home is chronicled in the inspiring memoir “Fabulous Finn: The Brave Police Dog Who Came Back from the Brink.” Written by the man who knows him best, Dave Wardell and co-authored by Sunday Times ghostwriter/novelist Lynne Barrett-Lee, the amazing canine duo of Finn and Dave is immortalized in their incredible life story that’s the stuff of Hollywood. Make no mistake, the dangers police officers confront are real, the raw emotions they have when one of their own is injured in the line of duty are extreme, and the surprising compassion millions of people have for the brave police dogs who serve with them can inspire a nation in the darkest of times.
“Fabulous Finn” is a no-holds barred, unflinching glimpse into the world of a police dog handler and his devoted canine partner. The United Kingdom even passed “Finn’s Law” effective June 8th 2019 which guarantees harsher sentences for offenders who injure or killed law enforcement animals. Reading this book was an absolute joy, even my dog literally stuck his nose into it! A must-read for dog lovers and handlers, young and old.
July 5, 2018
Fabulous Finn
Dave Wardell with Lynne Barrett-Lee
ISBN 1786489066
BUY THIS BOOK!!!!
Seriously this is by far the best book I have read about British policing, crime and dog handling, I have read a fair few books about these three subjects in the last few years, this book is far and away the best written, most informative, most interesting and completely unputdownable, if heartbreaking book I have read. Normally I read a book, then let it digest for a few weeks, maybe read or listen to it again, but not this, Fabulous Finn is one I wanted to review immediately so you all can get your books and read it asap.
I haven’t been able to read recently so I don’t have this as a physical book yet only the audible version and I have to say they have picked an absolutely brilliant narrator in Ben Addis, his smooth, natural performance really brought the story to life without feeling you were listening to a performance, which is one of my pet hates!
Not often in life does a book seriously move you, stop you in your tracks and bring you to tears for all the right and honourable reasons, this book did that to me, I kept putting the timer on my kindle for an hour, and put it back on of another hour, and another…I finished the book in two pretty sleepless nights because I couldn’t stop listening, it was interesting, informative, thought provoking, tear jerking, heart warming and all kinds of stuff that somehow leaves a permanent mark on your heart when you finish it, I haven't stopped thinking about it. It was also one of those rare books that has a start, middle and end, it moves at a steady pace with enough information to give you a full picture in your mind of what is happening without bombarding you with to much information or technical talk, it is well rounded and real.
I felt like this was refreshingly open and honest, one often gets the impression in some non-fiction books that things are staged or misrepresented but I really felt this was not the case with this book, Dave appeared to want the truth out there for his beloved colleague, so that we know the truth of what they went through together, what their whole family was put through because of a criminal act and the long term fallout, which has now led to a legal campaign to change the law in Britain to protect the Fabulous Finn and his very special colleagues.
This was a very sensitively written book, it captures and distills a horrific moment in time, an act of extreme violence yet although it was heart wrenching it was in no way hard to read, you would have to have a hard heart to not feel the pain that Finn and Dave were put through, and go through their road forward with them from the day they met and started working together right up to tonight…July 5th and the eve of an enormous day, good luck, I know you will knock those MP’s dead tomorrow with your bravery, courage and outstanding valour, you are my hero Finn.
Dave Wardell with Lynne Barrett-Lee
ISBN 1786489066
BUY THIS BOOK!!!!
Seriously this is by far the best book I have read about British policing, crime and dog handling, I have read a fair few books about these three subjects in the last few years, this book is far and away the best written, most informative, most interesting and completely unputdownable, if heartbreaking book I have read. Normally I read a book, then let it digest for a few weeks, maybe read or listen to it again, but not this, Fabulous Finn is one I wanted to review immediately so you all can get your books and read it asap.
I haven’t been able to read recently so I don’t have this as a physical book yet only the audible version and I have to say they have picked an absolutely brilliant narrator in Ben Addis, his smooth, natural performance really brought the story to life without feeling you were listening to a performance, which is one of my pet hates!
Not often in life does a book seriously move you, stop you in your tracks and bring you to tears for all the right and honourable reasons, this book did that to me, I kept putting the timer on my kindle for an hour, and put it back on of another hour, and another…I finished the book in two pretty sleepless nights because I couldn’t stop listening, it was interesting, informative, thought provoking, tear jerking, heart warming and all kinds of stuff that somehow leaves a permanent mark on your heart when you finish it, I haven't stopped thinking about it. It was also one of those rare books that has a start, middle and end, it moves at a steady pace with enough information to give you a full picture in your mind of what is happening without bombarding you with to much information or technical talk, it is well rounded and real.
I felt like this was refreshingly open and honest, one often gets the impression in some non-fiction books that things are staged or misrepresented but I really felt this was not the case with this book, Dave appeared to want the truth out there for his beloved colleague, so that we know the truth of what they went through together, what their whole family was put through because of a criminal act and the long term fallout, which has now led to a legal campaign to change the law in Britain to protect the Fabulous Finn and his very special colleagues.
This was a very sensitively written book, it captures and distills a horrific moment in time, an act of extreme violence yet although it was heart wrenching it was in no way hard to read, you would have to have a hard heart to not feel the pain that Finn and Dave were put through, and go through their road forward with them from the day they met and started working together right up to tonight…July 5th and the eve of an enormous day, good luck, I know you will knock those MP’s dead tomorrow with your bravery, courage and outstanding valour, you are my hero Finn.
February 26, 2018
This book would make an excellent present for any dog-lover or anyone interested in policing. Many people will already have heard of Finn, the brave police dog who saved his handler’s life by risking his own and who was brought back from the brink to work again fighting crime. This book tells his story, but more than that, it paints a vivid picture of the magnificent job done by police dogs and their handlers. Alongside Finn’s story is the equally poignant one of his handler, Dave, who achieves his dream of becoming a dog handler despite having a traumatic childhood, which left him with problems of low self-esteem and anxiety.
On a more personal note, it has provided me with insights into the work of police dogs, which will be invaluable in my own writing.
Thank you Dave for an inspiring read!
On a more personal note, it has provided me with insights into the work of police dogs, which will be invaluable in my own writing.
Thank you Dave for an inspiring read!
February 16, 2018
what a fanatastic book such a brave dog.It made me cry and bought lumps to my throat..Well worth reading fab book if your a dog lover or not..
March 8, 2018
I loved the book , such a brave
And courageous dog , there definitely
Needs to be a Finns law , these special dogs need the recognition.
Thank you Dave for sharing your story .
And courageous dog , there definitely
Needs to be a Finns law , these special dogs need the recognition.
Thank you Dave for sharing your story .
March 8, 2025
Eye watering, heartbreaking and emotional!
January 20, 2021
A must for any dog lover showing the tightest of bonds between a man and his dog.
October 24, 2022
What a beautiful book. I remember Finn on BGT and Crufts friends for life. So glad he recovered.
May 20, 2018
A beautifully written account of both the events around Finn's injury and the career of both dog and handler up to and beyond that point. Clearly depicts the bond between dog and handler and the ups and downs of the job they perform and the critical and ongoing training that is a huge part of this work.
The insight into Wardell's childhood; how life shaped him for this career choice and the demons he battles are no doubt shared by others from all walks of life.
The events of the night that led to this book being written and the long road to recovery for both Finn and Wardell are written with an honesty and clarity that made for a few emotional moments as a reader. Enjoyable for anyone who cares for dogs (most British then!) and certainly insightful for anyone considering a career as a dog handler.
The eventual outcome for the assailant would be a spoiler and is not the focus of this book anyway - suffice to say; as a nation we need to reconsider some antiquated laws and consider the animals trained to protect in the line of duty...it is edging closer (google Finn's Law) but is not quite there yet.
The insight into Wardell's childhood; how life shaped him for this career choice and the demons he battles are no doubt shared by others from all walks of life.
The events of the night that led to this book being written and the long road to recovery for both Finn and Wardell are written with an honesty and clarity that made for a few emotional moments as a reader. Enjoyable for anyone who cares for dogs (most British then!) and certainly insightful for anyone considering a career as a dog handler.
The eventual outcome for the assailant would be a spoiler and is not the focus of this book anyway - suffice to say; as a nation we need to reconsider some antiquated laws and consider the animals trained to protect in the line of duty...it is edging closer (google Finn's Law) but is not quite there yet.
August 17, 2020
Having met Dave and Finn at Appledore BF I thought it was about time I read their story and what a story it was. Not only does it confirm the enormous bond between the dog and its handler, it confirms the rigorous training regime undertaken. Finn’s stabbing in protecting his mate and his miracle recovery was remarkable. Even though he retired at 8 years old he will forever leave a legacy of “Finns Law” for the lawful protection of all public service animals for whom we are all indebted.
January 10, 2020
I have just finished this book and to say i loved it and that it was well written is an understatement!
To be honest when I realised that I was near the end of the book I was a little sad that it was ending....
To be honest when I realised that I was near the end of the book I was a little sad that it was ending....
July 10, 2019
Brilliant
I love books about brave and fearless working dogs. This was outstanding!
I love books about brave and fearless working dogs. This was outstanding!
April 17, 2025
This book is an biography and autobiography of the Finn and his police officer handler Dave Wardell. It is a non-fiction narrative. The narrative takes the reader through all aspects of K-9 training, police work with K-9's, and the life at work and home of a K-9 police officer.
If you would like to see the dog and his trainer, you can go to the search bar in YouTube and you will be able to watch real life Finn and his handler interacting. There is also a "Fabulous Finn" Facebook page honoring Finn.
Locations and Settings: [Great Britain: Stevenage, London (Downham, Catford Police Station, RAF Biggin Hill, Crooked Billet in Pett’s Wood, King’s Cross, Westminster - Stevenage Station, Portcullis House), Hitchin, Higham Gobion (Davies Veterinary Specialists), West Midlands, Welsyn Garden City Police Kennels, Knebworth (for police dog training), Hayling Island, Oxfordshire (Wendlebury), Bicester, Bedfordshire (Police Headquarters), Warwickshire, Surrey Dog School, Wales (South Wales), Dulwich (Grove Tavern, Nottinghamshire Police Force, Bedford (Robert Bruce Middle School); Australia: Bondi Beach, Sydney (Clovelly), Lady Elliot Island]
If you would like to see the dog and his trainer, you can go to the search bar in YouTube and you will be able to watch real life Finn and his handler interacting. There is also a "Fabulous Finn" Facebook page honoring Finn.
Locations and Settings: [Great Britain: Stevenage, London (Downham, Catford Police Station, RAF Biggin Hill, Crooked Billet in Pett’s Wood, King’s Cross, Westminster - Stevenage Station, Portcullis House), Hitchin, Higham Gobion (Davies Veterinary Specialists), West Midlands, Welsyn Garden City Police Kennels, Knebworth (for police dog training), Hayling Island, Oxfordshire (Wendlebury), Bicester, Bedfordshire (Police Headquarters), Warwickshire, Surrey Dog School, Wales (South Wales), Dulwich (Grove Tavern, Nottinghamshire Police Force, Bedford (Robert Bruce Middle School); Australia: Bondi Beach, Sydney (Clovelly), Lady Elliot Island]
August 30, 2023
This book was very informative and very inspiring as you got the see the raw emotions and heartache that happened after Finn was sadly stabbed by a criminal. We got to learn a lot about Finns owner as well in this and a bit about his background and why he wanted to become a police officer and dog handler it was so moving and heartfelt reading about Dave’s past it really opens your eyes to why he wanted a better life for him and his family and it’s also heartbreaking that his dad passed away when he was still a baby. The way they came about getting Finns law to bought about is so interesting and so important for people to learn about as dogs are not property they are living animals and am so glad the law changed to allow that to be seen. I loved the bond that the Finn and owner shared and continued to share up until Finns death this year sadly. I just loved every aspect of this book and I could talk about it for hours and hours. So a raw moving insight into the life and love of Fin. Xxx
July 3, 2024
I've spent most of this book in tears.
I'd recommend this book to any dog lovers out there or those that are interested in policing. Many of you may have heard of Finn, the police dog who saved his handler's life by risking his own. This book tells us more than just his story, it paints a vivid picture of the magnificent job he carries out as a police dog.
Alongside Finn's journey through life and recovery, is the poignant one of his handler. Someone who suffers with low self esteem and anxiety; his love for work helps him thrive and we learn just that.
I have thoroughly enjoyed learning about the bond between service dogs and their handlers, a different angle in which I am used to reading animal related books.
Through all the tears it was a delight to read and would highly recommend.
I'd recommend this book to any dog lovers out there or those that are interested in policing. Many of you may have heard of Finn, the police dog who saved his handler's life by risking his own. This book tells us more than just his story, it paints a vivid picture of the magnificent job he carries out as a police dog.
Alongside Finn's journey through life and recovery, is the poignant one of his handler. Someone who suffers with low self esteem and anxiety; his love for work helps him thrive and we learn just that.
I have thoroughly enjoyed learning about the bond between service dogs and their handlers, a different angle in which I am used to reading animal related books.
Through all the tears it was a delight to read and would highly recommend.
January 5, 2025
As a dog lover, this book was a must read for me. I was well aware of Finn, and the campaign to bring in Finn's Law, as I've been following Fabulous Finn on social media. I wanted to know more though.
I knew this was going to be an emotional read, but I didn't expect to be crying into my coffee straight away. 😥
Fabulous Finn is an informative insight into the life of a Police Dog and its handler, and the bravery of each and every one of them. The fact that the deliberate injury to one of these dogs was once considered criminal damage, is certainly food for thought. 🐕
Despite the many times I cried while reading this book, there were a few light hearted moments. Some of Finn's antics reminded me of my own dogs, past and present. 🐕
Dog lovers, if you haven't read Fabulous Finn, you should, but have the tissues at the ready. 😥🐕
I knew this was going to be an emotional read, but I didn't expect to be crying into my coffee straight away. 😥
Fabulous Finn is an informative insight into the life of a Police Dog and its handler, and the bravery of each and every one of them. The fact that the deliberate injury to one of these dogs was once considered criminal damage, is certainly food for thought. 🐕
Despite the many times I cried while reading this book, there were a few light hearted moments. Some of Finn's antics reminded me of my own dogs, past and present. 🐕
Dog lovers, if you haven't read Fabulous Finn, you should, but have the tissues at the ready. 😥🐕
April 6, 2018
This book had me gripped right from the start, I don’t think I’ve ever laughed and cried at a book as much as I did with this one. It’s such an amazing story of how the bond between animals and humans can be so close and that both parties will do what they can to keep the other safe. I loved the pictures that were included in the book and it makes you wonder how poor Finn pulled through when you actually see the pictures of his horrific injuries, congratulations on Finn pulling through and well done to all the people that were involved in his recuperation and making it possible! Absolutely beautifully written and heart felt book.
March 24, 2024
Honestly just a great insight into the world of Police dog policing and the sheer lack of support at a legal level for them despite the harrowing ordeal Finn faced.
I would say whilst the story is obviously really investing, the read is less so. It focussed here and there on the reflective to the present and does so in a way to try and relate learning to the moment but would read better in a more systematic approach from pup to adult. Nonetheless, it had a particularly nice touch for people who didn’t know the history where it politely informed you that that dog doesn’t die. So yes. Spoilers. But essential nonetheless.
I would say whilst the story is obviously really investing, the read is less so. It focussed here and there on the reflective to the present and does so in a way to try and relate learning to the moment but would read better in a more systematic approach from pup to adult. Nonetheless, it had a particularly nice touch for people who didn’t know the history where it politely informed you that that dog doesn’t die. So yes. Spoilers. But essential nonetheless.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2018
I loved this book! It's a really touching story of Finns recovery, with some stories about how he and his Handler Dave became a Police Dog and Handler, people they've caught, Dave's life & the bond between them. It's interesting to read about what makes a dog tick, what it's like to be a Police Dog Handler and how they train their dogs. Sometimes it's sad, sometimes it's funny, sometimes it's joyful. I'm glad I read it and will definitely read it again and again once my 'to-be-read' pile of books goes down a bit.
July 21, 2021
To learn more about Finn
I loved this book from start to finish, I'm a great animal lover, especially dogs, i did my bit for both laws for Finn, it's a law that should have been made years ago, i was horrified when i read about Finn in the papers, and have never forgotten the bomb in London and the horses, unfortunately, it still goes on, there was a case the other week. I cried a lot while reading the book, but I'm well known for being soft, I loved this book and recommend it to anybody 😍🐾🐾🐾🐕🐕🐕
I loved this book from start to finish, I'm a great animal lover, especially dogs, i did my bit for both laws for Finn, it's a law that should have been made years ago, i was horrified when i read about Finn in the papers, and have never forgotten the bomb in London and the horses, unfortunately, it still goes on, there was a case the other week. I cried a lot while reading the book, but I'm well known for being soft, I loved this book and recommend it to anybody 😍🐾🐾🐾🐕🐕🐕
May 19, 2022
words cannot describe how i felt whilst reading this book. I was with Finn ( and his owner) everyh step of the way. I have always had German shepherds ( or should i say, they have always ha me) until this last few years, when we moverd itnto town. Unfortunately mobility problems prevented me from giving the last Sam the excercise he needed. So when he deeparted to the great kennel in the sky, he was the last. That was over six years ago. I miss him and the others more than words can ever say.
July 18, 2023
I’ve heard of Finn’s law and my fav dogs are German Shepherds so it was a must read!
A brilliantly written autobiography of the policeman, Dave Wardell, and his time working with Finn, other GSDs, and his supportive wife and three daughters.
The way he narrates it is perfect and how he details his strong bond with Finn is expertly described. His reinforcement of how scum shouldn’t get away with things, and attacking police dogs and horses, is emphasised with the support he received for the creation of Finn’s Law.
A true masterpiece of a book!
A brilliantly written autobiography of the policeman, Dave Wardell, and his time working with Finn, other GSDs, and his supportive wife and three daughters.
The way he narrates it is perfect and how he details his strong bond with Finn is expertly described. His reinforcement of how scum shouldn’t get away with things, and attacking police dogs and horses, is emphasised with the support he received for the creation of Finn’s Law.
A true masterpiece of a book!
September 18, 2019
Fantastic read
What an amazing read this was, I am pleased to know that Finns Law was brought into effect just before I purchased this book.
What a brave dog and what an amazing story Dave and Finn have to tell.
Service animals should have been treated in law as living breathing sentient creatures before poor Finns story happened as police dog's and horse's are wonderful and brave creatures.
What an amazing read this was, I am pleased to know that Finns Law was brought into effect just before I purchased this book.
What a brave dog and what an amazing story Dave and Finn have to tell.
Service animals should have been treated in law as living breathing sentient creatures before poor Finns story happened as police dog's and horse's are wonderful and brave creatures.
October 17, 2019
What a great book. If you are an animal lover, particularly a dog lover, you will adore this book. At the time of publication police dogs and horses were regarded in law as merely property, so anyone who deliberately harmed them could do so with little fear of any serious consequences. The attack on Finn and resulting campaign would change this and “Finn’s Law” made it onto the statute book on 8th June 2019. This book tells their story which includes a lot about the training too.
May 26, 2020
I loved this book! Although it had be crying within the first 50 pages. Dave Wardell writes the story very well, as it's chock full of information but told like a story. I love Finn, I think he's the bravest dog ever, and it was a rollercoaster reading through his journey.
I am so glad I read this book and would definitely recommend it to anyone!
I am so glad I read this book and would definitely recommend it to anyone!
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