INDIAN Independence day: This day reminds us of all the sacrifices that were made by our freedom fighters in order to set India free from British rule. Since, 73 years of Independence we were able to build ourselves a nation and secure ourselves only because of relentless efforts of Indian Military soldiers. But we cannot refrain counting efforts made by our Pet Soldiers. Our furry friends, who serve us as national heroes. On this occasion PFS brings down few facts and information on “DOGS in MILITARY” and how they help us to have relaxed sleep without fears of an outside enemy.

HISTORY: Romans were the first to use trained dogs in close combats and the inherent desire of the dog to please its master makes the task of training the animal easier. Since, the earliest days of recorded warfare, man has employed dogs as combatants or in direct support of combat operations.

MILITARY DOGS OF INDIA- There are around 1200 trained dogs in Indian army at present. These are mainly foreign breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors, Belgian Shepherds and Great Swiss Mountain dogs which are trained by Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC), but now the army is inducting indigenous dog breed known as the Mudhol Hound. A Lean dog with long legs, the Mudhol Hound belongs to the family of sighthounds, meaning that it depends on its keen sense of sight to hunt and chase prey. This hound has the ability to run swiftly and sniff suspected items, with its speed and swiftness as well as size it can be a good guard dog.

Dogs which retire from Indian Military were ( Mercy killed)/ Euthanised, but due to a petition filed at the Delhi High Court, took note on the practice of putting army dogs to sleep after their retirement, the Ministry of Defence has issued orders to send service animals post retirement to army centres in RVC-Meerut cantonment.

The Times of India (ToI) recently reported that animals used by paramilitary services would be retired with benefits, just like human members of their corps. The animals, which include dogs, horses, camels, yaks and mules, would be retired to old age homes or rehabilitation centres. The most important part of the policy was that: “no euthanasia or auction would be conducted for worn-out cases.”

On this day, Pet Funeral Services take pride in helping these loyal souls to their eternal journey. We have started this movement of awareness among Pet owner fraternity to offer their pet, a respectful end. We are committed to our vision “ Offering dignity , Preventing cruelty”

loyalty, devotion, selflessness, unflagging optimism, unqualified love are the terms we define these speechless creatures.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/good-news-for-animal-lovers-army-will-now-give-its-service-dogs-a-retirement-home/articleshow/  & TOI.