Information On Military Working Dogs

By Lisa Morris


Simply referred to as MWDs, these are specially trained dogs that are tasked with responsibilities such as attacking of the enemy, protecting the military personnel and the identification of explosives, weapons and drugs. These four legged heroes have been used in warfare since the early 120 BC. The of these military working dogs roles in battles have however over time evolved. Their acute sense of smell, loyalty, athleticism and quick learning abilities makes them the best candidates for such jobs.

The most preferred breeds for such work would include the German shepherd, the retriever and the Belgian Malinois. Such breeds normally are acquired from countries as Germany and Netherlands. Prior to being termed as a full member of the military, they get to sharpen their biting skills and their smelling skills through special training schedules.

There exists specific institutions that offer such training programs for them. In most cases the training schedule would run for a period between 60-90 days. An additional specialization in areas as drug detection, troop protection and explosive detection is also required of them before embarking on serious field missions. Furthermore, they have names for easy identification. Battle protocols identify these animals as of high priority, and are never left behind under any circumstances.

In the 21st century, technology makes better equipment even for these dogs, as they get to wear advanced gear that confers upon them parachuting abilities and the ability to listen in on their handlers. Additionally, such gear plays an important role of protecting these animal workers from external assaults. Dogs as Cairo, have played important roles in the military field, most notable the taking down of Osama bin laden.

Having been through the rigors of battle, most of them thereafter suffer post-traumatic stress disorders. Lucky enough, there exists cures that can remedy such situations. Symptoms of these complications would include, withdrawal, frantic attempts to take off, an inability to perfectly conduct the tasks designated to and paranoia.

Most of them get disabled in the battlefield and after retirement would need special attention from sensitive individuals. Such normally is enabled through adoption programs where after serving get to be put up for adoption. Better still, the staff working with such adoption programs get to collect regular reports from the adopters. This in order to monitor how the dog integrates with the different environment.

For those that do not survive the battle field, respectful memorial services are conducted for them. Additionally, special awards are awarded to those that perform heroic acts in their time of service. Such is the award known as the PDSA Dickin medal. Most recent awards were presented in the Capitol Hill ceremony on the 12th of July this year.

Conclusively, it would be right to state that they are not simple equipment to be used in battle, but are important companions to their human counterparts and deserve their earned respect. This in the light that their loyalty to humans survives the terrors of warfare as seen from scenarios where a dog stands by its handler even under terrifying warfare.




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