“I think it’s important to recognise that while dogs theoretically can eat a vegetarian or vegan diet, cats are obligate carnivores, and we really do not recommend feeding them this because of the very serious health concerns that can result,” says Shotton.

Training includes river work as Max can now sniff out — and help protect — great crested newts [GCN] and water voles, after starting off his career by tracing birds and bats.