Military and Police Service Dogs

Because we love animals, we also observe K-9 Veterans Day on March 13. This holiday commemorates the service and sacrifices of American military and working dogs that worked alongside our soldiers throughout history. The date marks the day when the U.S. Army’s War Dog Program first began on March 13, 1942.

 

There are about 2,500 war and military service dogs in service today, with about 700 serving at any given time overseas. According to retired Air Force K9 Handler, Louis Robinson, a fully-trained bomb detection canine is likely worth over $150,000. With an average of 98% accuracy in detecting bombs and drugs, others would argue that these animals are priceless. They jump from planes and rappel from helicopters. They are fearless heroes.

 

Chips, the most decorated military service dog, was donated to the U.S. Army in 1942. A mix of German shepherd, collie and husky, Chips was posthumously awarded the Dickin Medal, Great Britain’s most prestigious medal for animal bravery in January 2018. He was also awarded the Silver Star, a Distinguished Service Cross and a Purple Heart during the war.

 

 

Although we wish that war wasn’t necessary and that animals didn’t have to participate, we know that their presence has save thousands of lives and continues to do so every day. These canine soldiers are deeply loved and cared for by their military and police handlers. In fact, over 90% of retired military service does are adopted by their former handlers.

“Our Run Those Dogs family appreciates the strength and sacrifice it takes to serve our country. We respect and honor those who serve, as well as those who support them at home.”

You can learn more by watching the heartbreaking true story of a military combat dog, Rex, and the young marine corporal, Megan Leavey (played by Kate Mara) whose unique discipline and bond with Rex saved many lives during their deployment in Iraq. When she is assigned to clean up the K-9 unit after a disciplinary hearing, Leavey identifies with a particularly aggressive dog, Rex, and is given the chance to train him. Over the course of their service, Megan and Rex completed more than 100 missions until an IED explosion injures them, putting their fate in jeopardy.

There’s no denying the impact an animal can have on a person’s life. You can stream it on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and others but be sure to bring the tissues. You’ll learn more about how military K-9s save lives in this heart warming true story “that balances quiet drama with in your face action.”

Keeping K-9s in Kevlar

We also wanted you to know about a local program that works to protect law enforcement K-9s while on the job. Based in Bellingham, WA, Keeping K-9s in Kevlar raises community funds to purchase K-9 Storm Patrol SWAT Kevlar vests in honor of a Fallen Officer (nominated by the handler). Each vest is expensive and starts at $2,560. The group builds community rapport with law enforcement, assists agencies with fundraising.

Please join Run Those Dogs as we sincerely thank and honor veterans, active duty and military reservists for their service to our country. We also recognize the significant contribution of military and police dogs that have and continue to serve at their side.