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In a moving tribute to bravery, Kent, a golden Labrador and an Army tracker dog, was posthumously honored with a Presidential gallantry award for her heroic actions during a counter-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir.
Kent, a veteran of nine anti-terror operations, was instrumental in leading her unit to terrorists holed up in Rajouri last September. In a tragic turn, Kent was fatally shot while lunging forward to protect her handler, highlighting the selflessness and courage that have come to define these canine soldiers.
Kent’s sacrifice is not an isolated case. Over the years, Army dogs like her have played crucial roles in various operations, often risking their lives alongside their human counterparts.
The list of canine heroes includes Mansi, a Labrador who, along with her handler, died preventing an infiltration bid in north Kashmir in 2015, and Axel, a Belgian Malinois who was shot while apprehending a terrorist in Baramulla in 2022.
Until 2017, the Indian Army had a grim practice of euthanizing its retired dogs unless they had been awarded gallantry medals. However, following public outcry and a directive from the Delhi High Court, the Army established a retirement home in Meerut, providing these brave animals a dignified post-service life.
Despite this progress, adopting retired Army dogs remains challenging due to strict procedures, unlike in the U.S., where military dogs often find homes with veterans.
In India, the culture of adopting animals, particularly retired working dogs, is still nascent. Many of these dogs end up in shelters, facing a difficult old age due to exposure to harmful substances during their service.
While the state police and central armed police forces also utilize canines, there is still no structured system in place for their care post-retirement. The lack of widespread adoption reflects a broader issue in the country, where animals are often seen as status symbols rather than lifelong companions.
Kent’s story and the stories of other heroic dogs serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by these silent soldiers, and the importance of providing them with the respect and care they deserve in their later years.
Discover How Army Dogs Saved Lives During the Wayanad Landslides – Click Here to Learn More!
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