Mr Q, guide dog for ex-SNP MSP Dennis Robertson, dies
The guide dog who accompanied former SNP MSP Dennis Robertson for four years, has died.
Mr Q, a German Shepherd, was a well-known furry face at Holyrood as he helped former Aberdeenshire West MSP Mr Robertson navigate the Scottish Parliament’s corridors.
The nine-year-old dog retired after the Scottish election in May, after building up a strong following on Twitter and befriending politicians from all parties.
Mr Q helped to launch a campaign to have service animals - including guide dogs, hearing dogs and caring support dogs - classed as working dogs in regards to VAT legislation.
Mr Robertson’s canine companion was a regular sight campaigning for the SNP in and around Aberdeenshire, as well as supporting various campaigns and charities.
Mr Robertson tweeted: “Very sad news; my beloved friend Mr Q passed away this morning. He had a short but very playful retirement and will be very sorely missed.”
SNP leader and First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon wrote: “Sad news, Mr Q was much loved across the Scottish Parliament.”
Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson added: “Oh no. So sorry to hear this Dennis. He was a lovely lovely dog.”
Mr Robertson represented Aberdeenshire West between May 2011 and March 2016. He was succeeded by Alexander Burnett at the last Holyrood election.
A former social worker, Mr Robertson later joined the Guide Dogs for the Blind association in Forfar before moving onto North East Sensory Services in 2005.