Celebrating K-9 Veterans

March, like every other month, features a number of pet-related holidays to celebrate. The 13th is K9 Veterans Day, which honors working dogs. In this piece, a local Middletown, KY veterinarian highlights working dogs.

When is K9 Veterans’ Day?

The doggy holiday is observed on March 13th. If you’re wondering why that particular day was picked, it is the official birthday of the United States K9 Corps. The unit was founded in 1942 in honor of the courageous canines who served throughout WWII.

What Breed of Dog Does the United States Military Use?

Several dog breeds have served during combat. Here are some of the pups that have won recognition:

German Shepherd 

The German Shepherd is one of the breeds best suited to being a military working dog. These dogs are not only extremely intelligent and brave, but they are also agile, attentive, and easily trained. They can be seen working in a variety of settings, including search and rescue, guard duties, and patrol.

Belgian Malinois

Since the 1980s, the United States Department of Defense has mostly worked with this intelligent, fearless dog. They are a different breed from German Shepherds, despite their similar appearance. The Malinois is recognized for its unwavering loyalty to its handlers.

Dutch Shepherd

The Dutch Shepherd, a relative of the German Shepherd, is also exceptionally intelligent, trustworthy, attentive, and obedient. These pups are robust and strong, having started as farm dogs. They were originally one of the main breeds utilized by the United States military. They are still frequently encountered in the Netherlands while on duty.

Labrador Retriever

The Lab, known for being a pleasant, funny pet, is frequently referred to as the best dog in the world, and with good reason. They’re kind, smart, and ready to please. Those adorable noses are also extremely astute. Because of its excellent sense of smell, the Lab is among the top breeds at sniffing out explosives and contraband. They have been widely employed in the fight against terrorism throughout the last few decades.

Rottweiler 

The Rottweiler’s popularity among troops and military regiments has dwindled in recent years. It’s not easy to see how the Rottweiler’s massive size and stature can be intimidating. It’s no wonder that these dogs were—and still are—popular as guard dogs.

Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman has also fallen slightly in favor. They are still used, often as guard dogs and patrol dogs. They are extremely good at tracking and can follow complex orders.

Of course, they are only the best military dogs. Other dogs who have received credit for their valor in battle include Smoky, a Yorkshire Terrier, and Seargen Stubby, a mongrel who may have been part Boston Terrier. Stubby is now renowned as the mascot of the 102nd Infantry Regiment. That amazing dog became the Marine mascot. That remarkable pup remained with his division, the 26th (Yankee) Division, for 18 months, surviving 17 battles and four offensives. He is credited with rescuing his regiment from a mustard gas attack.

Ask your Middletown, KY vet for more info on these and other breeds.

Who Is The Most Famous K-9?

That honor must go to Rin Tin Tin. The now-famous puppy was discovered abandoned in France. He was brought to the United States, where he made his debut film appearance in 1922’s The Man from Hell River. Rin Tin Tin went on to be the world’s first canine movie star.

What Is The History Behind K9 Day?

This dates back to 1942. The United States Army, immersed in World War II, began training dogs. The K-9 corps was formed when a group of civilians urged the U.S. Army to examine canines’ particular talents. Many of the early canines were donated to benefit the cause. Canines for Defense, Inc (DFD) was put in charge of selecting, training, and caring for the canines. In the first year alone, nearly 1800 dogs were trained.

What Are K-9s Used For?

 K-9s may do a range of duties. Some of these include detection, search and rescue, suspect apprehending, and patrolling.

Are K-9s Protected By Law?

Yes. President Clinton approved that legislation back in 2000. That statute made killing a police dog a felony, punishable by up to ten years in prison. 

There are still new laws being implemented. In 2019, Florida increased the maximum sentence for killing a police dog to 15 years. Tennessee and Kentucky both followed suit. 

Just last year, lawmakers in six states proposed legislation to enhance penalties and prison sentences for individuals who injure or kill police dogs. The cause enjoys widespread bipartisan backing.

Here are a few of the examples:

• Kansas: A bill authorizing courts to punish first-time offenders to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine for murdering K-9 dogs, as well as dogs used by game wardens, search and rescue teams, and other groups, received overwhelming support. The ultimate vote was 107–4.
• Colorado: The House voted 52-12 in favor of legislation requiring anybody convicted of serious cruelty to a K-9 to pay at least $2000 and cover the animal’s care or replacement. This is in addition to a maximum 6-year prison sentence.
• Missouri: The House has approved legislation that increases the punishment for hurting K-9s and police horses. This would increase the sentence from four to seven years.

This is on top of federal legislation.

Can I Adopt A K-9?

Adopting a retired police dog is not impossible, but there are some restrictions. You would have to undergo screenings and exams. As one might imagine, retired K-9s are frequently adopted by their handlers. Ask your Middletown, KY vet for more information. 

What Should I Do If I See a K-9?

Nothing! Just admire Fido from afar. Never meddle with a working dog, whether it’s a K-9 or something else. This is not only bad manners, it’s actually illegal. In fact, interfering with a working dog may be a felony. 

Book An Appointment At Our Middletown, KY Pet Hospital

Do you need to bring your canine companion in? Are you looking for a great veterinarian in the area? Contact us, your local Middletown, KY pet hospital, now!