Saturday 20 August 2016

The Training Of 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.

This kind of training usually is provided by specialized military establishments and usually conducted by special dog handlers who similarly undergo specific training before handling the dogs. In most cases a standard sixty to ninety day training routine is subjected to them prior to becoming full members of the military force. An area of specialty is chosen for each dog. This being from the provided areas as bomb detection, drug detection and personnel protection. Furthermore, each dog gets an identity through a name.

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.

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.

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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