Dogs have a long history of serving their country and their masters - even during times of war. Did you know that dogs have been used for service in military operations for hundreds of years? Their roles in the battlefield have changed over time. As munitions and military technology has changed, so has the role of dogs in war. As a dog lover, you may be fascinated to know how dogs just like yours have helped pave the way for freedom over the years.

History of Dogs in War Time

Dogs have served their masters during times of war in many ways. In the time of the Celts, around 500 BC, dogs were used to fight against horses and the horsemen from invading armies. Dogs were also used as weapons by the Tudors - it's believed that King Henry the VIII sent 400 mastiffs to Holy Roman Emperor Charles V to support him in the fight against France, while Queen Elizabeth I used dogs to take on Irish Desmond rebels.

During World War I, dogs were used to send messages, point out hostile troops and send messages between army units. Special gas masks were even made for dogs! Messenger dogs could cover a distance of two to four kilometers between army units. In some cases, dogs pulled vehicles and machine guns. Dogs even served in armored divisions.

Honored War Dogs

Today, dogs are honored with awards for their service in the military. Below are some recent examples of dogs that were given awards for brave service.

• Kuno - who saved lives in Afghanistan
• Jag - who served with the Army for seven years
• Taba - served as an Army Special Forces multipurpose canine
• Summer - served in Afghanistan and is now a member of Amtrak Police Department in Washington, D.C.
• Taker - served with the Marine Corps in Iraq and Afghanistan

Happy Veterans Day

This Veteran's Day, the staff at Feeders Pet Supply honor the troops and their canine helpers. Thank you for your service to our nation.