They work hard, sniffing out crime with only the occasional scritch behind the ears in gratitude.

But police dogs deserve better, according to the police and crime commissioner in the English county of Nottinghamshire, who wants to reward them with “pensions” on retirement.

Paddy Tipping says the idea for a canine pension fund came about because officers were picking up the costs for retired police dogs. Handlers normally take dogs home upon retirement. Tipping, however, says he doesn’t “think it’s fair that they have to pay all the bills.”

The plans announced were rolled out last December. Up to 500 pounds ($800) annually will be given to handlers for three years to cover veterinary bills for work-related injuries or illness.