Dogs of war gear up in paw-tective kit to carry out their vital role of keeping us safe
Military dogs are being equipped with improved protective gear as they carry out their vital roles such as bomb detection.
The new personal protective equipment for Armed Forces canines includes goggles, hearing protection, safety boots for their paws, cool vests for operating in hot conditions and flotation devices.
Military dogs Una, Meg, Bonnie and Grainger were seen testing the new kit during continuation training St George's Barracks in Rutland.
The new equipment is part of an MOD contract to help deliver enhanced training for its pack of more than 500 military working dogs.
Defence, Equipment and Support (DE&S), the procurement arm of the MOD, has awarded Surrey-based company Von Wolf K9 Sport & Service Dog Equipment Limited a five-year contract, with the option to extend it by two more years.
The contract has an estimated value of £3.1m for the full term.
The funding will see the development of a "canine catalogue" that will provide essential training and welfare items in addition to the PPE.
Hundreds of dogs are currently serving at home and overseas, working across the Army, RAF, Ministry of Defence Police, Germany Guard Service, MOD Guard Service and as Regimental Mascots.
They range from German shepherds, Belgian shepherds and Dutch shepherds to springer spaniels, Labradors and other breeds.
The MOD said the Specialist Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Search (EOD&S), Exploitation and Countermeasures (SEEC) team within DE&S tendered for the Canine Support Solution contract.
The contract will also supply everyday products such as waste bags, bowls, balls, leads and harnesses, as well as specialist exercise aids and agility equipment.
St George's Barracks is home to 1 Military Working Dogs Regiment, Royal Army Veterinary Corps.
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