K-9 Veterans Day

K-9 Veterans Day, is celebrated on March 13, to remember and honor the service and sacrifice of the US military and working dogs throughout history.

History of K-9 Veterans Day

There are a lot of changes after the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941. We divided oil, leather and rubber. Military enlisted. Women rolled up their sleeves and served in the army.

And the dogs were called on duty. During the First World War, the United States noticed the use of canines by Europeans as sentinels, messengers, and a number of other functions.

A private citizen, Alene Erlanger initiated a program called Dogs for Defense. Together with the American Kennel Club and several breeders, the group aimed to train these dogs for military use.

By November 1942, the army had prepared the first Defensive Dogs for duty in North Africa. While at first they were apprehensive about guns, they proved to be well trained.

As the war progressed, Dogs for Defense could not keep up with the demand, and the Remount Branch, Service Installation Department took over training the dogs.

After many years, a variety of training methods for K9 units are developed by the army, police, rescue, and rescue. Their training is meet the demand of the job, and each animal and handler performs their duties to the fullest.

Why K-9 Veterans Day is important?

They are here to protect us

Dogs have brought us such joy by their loveliness and loyalty. However, they bring us even more joy as they work towards justice. From the first watchdogs in Dogs of Defense to dogs trained to sniff out contraband or track down criminals, the K9 can do it all. And they have. In the past, K9 dogs belonged to Search and Rescue teams at Ground Zero, serving as Guard Dogs, and more. We thank them for their service!

They are as adorable as anything

Do you know that sentence: there's nothing cuter than a man in uniform? It is not correct completely, because it is clearly talking about dogs. We have two points to support this argument. Firstly, there is something very precious about how serious K9 dogs are when they do their jobs. Second, they get tiny police shirts. Closed case.

They are extremely well trained

In a time when some parents can't even get their kids to take out the trash regularly, the K9s are perfectly trained. Don't believe us? Some K9s are trained to bite into the arms of criminals to keep them in position when ordered. However, the dogs are not allowed to have blood drawn. So they know exactly how hard it is to bite down to hold without violence. That's incredible! K9 dogs, we salute you.

How to celebrate K-9 Veterans Day

Adopt a retired K9 dog

K9s are favorite and appreciated, but in some case, there are some of them that are left without a home after their service ends. If you are ready for a new dog, adopt one of these dogs instead of buying them from a breeder! An organization that helps you find these dogs is linked here.

Reward your dog with a treat

If that's the case, show your fluffy friend how much you love him! He will appreciate it and express the spirit of the holiday. It's a win-win outcome and good for all!

Teach your dog a new trick

Old dogs can't learn new tricks but yours can! By training your own dog is also a great way to celebrate this day. You'll have a reason to spend time with your dog, and you'll feel great when you finally get him to do the trick. Try starting with your dog rolling over or shaking your hand.