TEN REASONS TO THANK INDIAN ARMY DOG TEAMS
- Dogs train extensively from birth to earn their ‘Specialized Army Dog’ tag in Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) of Indian Army. Until the pups are about 06 months old, Experts observe them for personality traits to determine their future specialty. Next, spends three months of “basic obedience training” and then to a more intensive training programme.
- Army dogs develop a close bond with their trainers, especially when deployed. Many trainers believe in their K-9 partner as all weather friends amongst lonely deployment phase in difficult terrain and climatic conditions.
- Army dogs that specialize in bomb detection smell for Improvised Explosive Devices in the path of their troops and alert their handler to any danger so that a bomb disposal team can clear the threat.
- The Tracker dogs lead the fighting column and hence most vulnerable to enemy threat or fire. Many Army dogs have attained supreme sacrifice for the country alongside other soldiers and have been conferred gallantry awards for their martyrdom.
- Just like humans, not all dogs take to flying, but canine soldiers train to fly in, slither and rappel from difficult heights¬—and jump out of—helicopters alongside their trainers.
- Army dog teams pitch in to help local security organizations during special events like the Republic Day and Independence Day apart from sensitive National or International events including sport events.
- Off-duty Army dogs bring cheer to the other Army men of their unit and serve as biggest stress busters and socialize in a non-aggressive environment.
- The physical demands of the job can be hard on Army dog teams. By the age of 9 or 10, most Army dogs have chronic health problems and must retire. While their trainers serve for extended tenures in highly active field areas virtually staying away from their families throughout their service life.
- Because of their extensive training in specialized tasks, and limited remaining life, adoption of these K-9s is not yet a popular choice as people doubt their suitability for domestic life.
- Army dogs are so beloved by their fellow soldiers that many of them have retirement ceremonies or parties—and yes, few lucky ones even enjoy the retirement cakes.
Lt.Col.Dr.Alok Palei
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