A MET Police dog needed emergency medical treatment after being struck around the head with a metal baton during an incident in Downham yesterday afternoon (November 6).

Five-and-a-half-year-old Fuzz was attacked in the Calmont Road area at around 14.30hrs as he helped to detain a man suspected of being involved in the armed robbery of a moped.

The German Shepherd dog, along with officers, pursued the suspect after he dumped the moped and managed to catch up with him, at which point the suspect struck him around the head with a metal, asp-like baton.

Despite his injuries, Fuzz continued to tackle the man who was then arrested by officers at the scene on suspicion of robbery, criminal damage (in relation to Fuzz) and animal cruelty.

Fuzz was bleeding heavily from his nose and had also sustained a cut under his eye so was taken by his handler, PC Craig Calthorpe, for emergency veterinary treatment.

He is now under observation and on painkillers but is expected to make a full recovery.

PC Calthorpe said: "We are all incredibly relieved Fuzz is on the mend as we initially feared the worst.

"It's testament to his bravery that he refused to back down even after he was struck, and shows the dedication of our dogs who put themselves in harm's way on a daily basis."

Fuzz joined the Met as a seven-week-old and has been with his handler ever since.

Officers were initially called to Avondale Road, Downham, at around 2.20pm following reports a moped had been stolen by two men armed with a knife and a baton.

When the men were tracked down they dumped the moped and ran off on foot.

The arrested man received medical treatment for bite wounds to the arm but is now in custody. The other suspect is still on the run.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the police on 101.