A rescue dog has gone from underdog to super dog after being recruited by a police dog handler.

The dog, named Honey, was spotted by PC Stephanie Allinson from the Cheshire Police and North Wales Police Alliance, who was seeking a new dog to train as a drugs, cash, and firearms detection dog.

PC Allinson was in need of a new recruit as her Labrador, PD Otis, was nearing retirement.

In spring last year, PC Allinson contacted the rescue home to find a potential candidate.

PD Otis is enjoying his retirement (Image: Cheshire Constabulary) A few months later, a six-month-old yellow Labrador, Honey, who had been brought in as an unwanted pet, was suggested to her.

PC Allinson went to assess the puppy and was 'blown away' by Honey's confidence and respectfulness.

She sought permission from her then sergeant to take on the rescue dog for training, and the green light was given.

Honey was then introduced to her new home and work environment, and was exposed to her potential new surroundings.

She was engaged in ball play, an activity crucial for her training.

It wasn't long before she displayed vital signs of being ready for formal training, which she has now completed.

Honey now has her licence and is an official crime fighter.

PC Allinson said: "I think it’s important that people know there are so many of these little gems with so much potential to be fantastic pets, or like Honey, a working dog, desperately waiting for a loving home.

"I’ve turned an unwanted rescue dog into a police dog - and that’s incredible.

"These dogs have so much potential - to think they could be overlooked is heart-breaking."

Honey is now a trained police dogHoney is now a trained police dog (Image: Cheshire Police) Anna Stansfield, senior manager at Cheshire Dogs’ Home, said: "Honey’s story shines a light on the real potential that so many of our rescue dogs have, whether that’s as wonderful companions or, in Honey’s case, as working dogs on the front line serving the wider community.

"We’re so proud of Honey and we all wish her the very best in her career fighting crime."

PD Otis, the Labrador who paved the way, is now enjoying his retirement, relaxing on the sofa while Honey picks up where he left off.

For more information on Cheshire Dogs' Home and dogs available for adoption, visit their website.