Celebrating K-9 Veterans 

Like every month, March has several pet-related holidays to celebrate. Working dogs get the spotlight on the 13th: it’s K9 Veterans Day. A local vet puts working dogs in the spotlight in this article.

When Is K9 Veterans Day?

The doggy holiday is celebrated on March 13th. If you were wondering why that specific date was chosen, it’s the official birthday of the U.S. K9 Corps. The unit was established in support and recognition of the brave dogs who served during World War II.

The history of K9 Day goes back to 1942. The U.S. Army, embroiled in World War II, started training dogs. A group of civilians persuaded the U.S. Army to take dogs’ unique talents into consideration. Many of those early dogs were donated to support the cause.

Dogs for Defense, Inc (DFD) took responsibility for selecting, training, and caring for the dogs. In that first  year alone, over 1800 dogs were trained.

What Breed Of Dog Does The U.S. Military Use?

Several breeds of dogs have served in wartime. Here are a few of the pups that have earned recognition:

German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is beyond a doubt one of the breeds that is best cut out for being a military working dog. These dogs are not only incredibly smart and brave, they are agile, responsive, and highly trainable. They can be found working in a variety of fields, including search and rescue, guard duty, and patrol. Of course, they also make great family pets!

Belgian Malinois

Since the 1980s, the U.S. Department of Defense has mostly been working with this smart, brave dog. Though they look a lot like German Shepherds, they are a separate breed. The Malinois is known for being extremely loyal to their handlers. They are also extremely smart, strong, and trainable.

Dutch Shepherd

Another relative of the German Shepherd, the Dutch Shepherd is smart, dependable, alert, and obedient. Robust and strong, these pups originated as farm dogs. They were once among the top breeds used by the U.S. military. Though they aren’t as in demand as they once were here in the States, they are often found in the line of duty in the Netherlands.

Labrador Retriever

Known for being a friendly, goofy pet, the Lab is often called the best dog in the world, and for good reason. They are friendly, smart, and eager to please. Those cute noses are also incredibly astute. That incredible sense of smell puts the Lab on the short list of breeds that excel at sniffing out explosives and contraband. They have been used extensively through recent decades, in the war on terrorism.

Rottweiler

Though once a favorite of soldiers and military regimens, the Rottweiler’s popularity in this field has been slipping. It’s not hard to see how the Rottweiler’s formidable size and stature can be intimidating. It’s no surprise that these dogs were—and sometimes still are—a top choice as guard dogs.

Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman has also slid down the ranks a bit in terms of popularity. However, they are still utilized, often as guard dogs and patrol dogs. They are also good at tracking, and are able to follow complex orders.

Of course, these guys are just the top military dogs. Other pups that have earned recognition for their bravery in battle include Smoky, a Yorkshire Terrier; Chips, a German Shepherd/Collie/Husky mix that served in General Patton’s Seventh Army in Germany; and Sergeant Stubby, a mutt who may have been part Boston Terrier. Stubby is known today as the mascot of the  102nd Infantry Regiment. That incredible pooch became a mascot of the U.S. Marine Corps. That incredible pup stuck with his division the 26th (Yankee) Division for 18 months, surviving 17 battles and 4 offensives. He is credited with saving his regiment from a mustard gas attack. There’s even an animated movie about him: 2018’s Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero.

Who Is The Most Famous K-9

That honor has to go to Rin Tin Tin. The now-famous pup was actually found abandoned in France. He was brought over to the United States after the war ended, and made his first onscreen appearance in 1922’s The Man from Hell’s River. Rin Tin Tin went on to become the world’s first canine movie star.

What Are K-9s Used For?

K-9s can be used in a variety of tasks. Search and rescue dogs are utilized in locating survivors of accidents or disasters, and are also used to track down fugitives. Arson dogs can detect chemicals at fire sites, while cadaver dogs sniff out decomposing bodies. Man’s Best Friend is also often employed sniffing out bombs, drugs, or other contraband.

Are K-9s Protected By Law?

Yes. President Clinton signed off on that legislation back in 2000. That law established killing a police dog to be a felony, with a prison sentence of up to ten years. There are still new laws being put into place. In 2019, Florida increased its penalty to a 15-year max for killing a police dog. Tennessee and Kentucky also followed suit with similar legislation. And just last year, lawmakers in six states presented legislation that would increase fines and prison sentencing for those who hurt or kill police dogs. There is bipartisan support for the cause overall.

Here are a few examples:

• Kansas: A bill allowing judges to sentence first-time offenders to five years jail time and a 10000 fine for killing K-9 dogs, as well as dogs used by game wardens, search and rescue, and other organizations got overwhelming support. The final vote was 107-4.
• Colorado: The House voted 52-12 for legislation that would require anyone convicted of aggravated cruelty against a K-9 to pay at least $2000 and cover the costs of the animal’s care or replacement. This is on top of a prison sentence of up to 6 years.
• Missouri: Approval has been won in the House for legislation increasing penalties for harming K-9s and police horses. This would raise the penalty from four years to seven.

Can I Adopt A K-9?

Adopting a former police dog isn’t impossible, but there are some strings attached. You would need to go through screenings and assessments. As one may expect, retired K-9s are often adopted by their handlers. That said, there are quite a few charities that focus on this niche. Ask your vet for more information.

What Do I Do If I See A K-9?

Never interfere with a working dog, whether it’s a K9 or a personal service dog. Fido may be cute, but he’s working and needs to be able to focus on his duty. Working dogs are usually easy to identify because they typically are going to be sporting a vest or sweater. Always steer clear and let the pooch focus. This isn’t just good manners, it’s also a legal matter. Interfering with a working K9 is illegal, and in many cases could constitute a felony. 

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