Wednesday 17 August 2016

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.

Most commonly used breeds includes, retrievers, German Shepherds, and the Belgian Malinois. Such breeds normally are obtained from countries as the Netherlands and German, which have specific breeding programs for such dogs. Before embarking on special missions, they acquire special training that ensures that their sense of smell is perfected and that their take down abilities are strengthened.

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.

Better still, these animal workers get to have greatly modified gears that would allow them to use parachutes and also ensure that the handler easily communicates to them even over great distances. Such gear usually has a primary goal of ensuring they are well covered against detrimental body injuries. All thanks to technology. Most of them have participated in great historic acts of battle, most notable the taking out of Osama bin laden where Cairo the dog participated.

Nonetheless, these members of the military in most cases after repeated battlefield experiences, get to suffer post-traumatic stress. Most dogs suffering such mental disorders depict symptoms as, withdrawal, frantic attempts to run or wander away, increased vigilance even when in safe environments, drastic changes in the pre-existing relationship with the handler and an inability to conduct the activities for which the dog were trained to perform.

These dogs, after years of service, normally are put up for adoption where they get to retire in peace and comfort. To make sure of their comfort, reports on their current conditions usually are frequently collected, and this alongside time to time visits.

Due respects are paid to them that get killed in action. This through special memorial services held for them. Furthermore, all heroic acts from these four legged military personnel, are honored through an awarding of the much acclaimed PDSA Dickin medal. A most resent awarding ceremony was held in the Capitol Hill area this year.

It would be true to therefore conclude that they are of great importance to the human life, especially during warfare. Additionally, the statement that they are mans best friend is clearly supported by the fact that, such friendship endures between these soldiers and their handlers even during stressful hours in the battlefield.




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