Army

Behind-the-scenes glimpse of regiment that trains military's four-legged personnel

Watch: How military horses and dogs are trained for ceremonial and active service

Forces News has been granted incredible behind-the-scenes access to the Defence Animal Training Regiment (DATR), an Army base that plays a crucial, four-legged role, in UK defence.

Each year, DATR, based at Remount Barracks in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, delivers role-specific training for around 1,400 military working animals and 400 of their handlers.

The regiment is "responsible for procuring all the military working animals that come into service", says Lieutenant Colonel Michael Robinson, Commanding Officer, DATR.

"As well as training the animals, we train the people who look after, care and handle those animals to provide the capability that military animals provide for defence."

It is a busy environment and includes a mixed workforce which makes up DATR's three specific squadrons, for canine, equine and veterinary training, with personnel from the Royal Veterinary Corps, RAF Police and soldiers from the London districts – King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery and Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

Around 100 civilian servants also support the care of the animals.

Dental check for Household Cavalry horse military vets Defence Animal Training Regiment 120723 CREDIT BFBS — The Veterinary Squadron is responsible for delivering primary and specialist healthcare to the animals based at the DATR.

All military horses or working dogs need to undergo training at the base before they can enter service.

Their skills play a vital role in defence. Just two years ago, British Army working dogs were deployed to Afghanistan to help in the process of getting UK nationals and eligible Afghans out of Kabul.

The onsite veterinary team, led by Major Harriet Telfer, ensures all the animals receive any medical care they may require.

This can include treatments, like a six-monthly dental check for Household Cavalry horse Luxemburg, or a hydrotherapy session for Keena, a Belgian shepherd dog recovering from an injury.

Melton Mowbray is also the home of The Army School of Farriery, where all the military farriers are trained. It's these soldiers who are responsible for the foot care of all horses.

DATR is opening its doors to members of the public on 29 July for a special, one-off open day. Details are available on the DATR's Facebook page.