A War Memorial Dedicated To Service Dogs

Is there a war memorial for service dogs in India? Yes, one is being set up in Meerut, and it is described as the first of its kind in the country. It will honour the animals that served and were lost, and will include the names of 300 dogs and more than 300 handlers. Here is what we know from the report, and why service animals deserve this recognition.

What the memorial will be

The memorial is meant to honour animals that offered their services and were lost. Along with the dogs, it will also carry the names of horses and some mules. It is in honour of the animals that lost their lives in Kargil and during counter-insurgency operations several years ago. The memorial will mostly honour dogs, but it also draws attention to the other animals who served.

Where it is

It is to be located at the Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) Centre and College in the Meerut region. The military is known for breeding a variety of animals, including horses, mules and dogs. At the time of the report, final approval from the defence ministry was expected soon. We have used the wording of the original report, so please check official sources for the latest status.

How it compares with the National War Memorial

The new memorial is expected to be similar in spirit to the National War Memorial that already stands in Delhi, though it will not be as grand. Hundreds of animals lost their lives in the conflict. They were trained and used by the military, and this memorial is a token of remembrance and acknowledgement of that effort.

Animals in service today

The army is estimated to have more than 1,000 dogs working with it, thousands of mules and more than 1,000 horses. The report notes that top-of-the-line breeds were often used for training dogs in the past, but in recent years the army has been opting for more regional breeds. That is good news for fans of Indian dogs, and a reminder of how capable local breeds can be. Our post on unethical breeding talks about why Indian street dogs and rescues deserve more attention too.

Whatever the breed, the principle is the same: a dog's skills come from training, patience and trust, not from a pedigree.

What service dogs can do

Dogs of many varieties offer great skill and value. They can track, help locate missing people and pick up scents that humans cannot. Some are trained to detect explosives. That kind of work can help save lives and bring justice. It also takes years of patient training and a close partnership between a dog and its handler.

Those animals did not get to choose whether to sacrifice themselves for the cause. They were included in the conflict regardless, and now their memory and efforts are being honoured. Less conflict in the future would honour their memory even further, by working toward a reality where no more names need to be added.

India is not the only country that has used dogs and other animals in this way, and there are a variety of memorials around the world that have been dedicated to animals.

Why handlers matter too

The memorial lists more than 300 handlers alongside the dogs. That says a lot. Working dogs rely on their handlers' training and trust, and the bond between them is part of the story. When we honour the dogs, we honour the people who stood beside them.

Every working animal is part of a team, and a memorial that records both names is a fitting way to say thank you.

Ways to honour service animals

• Share their story. Talk to children about what service animals do and why they matter.
• Read from reliable sources. The Print report is linked below, and the Indian Army site gives official information.
• Support animal welfare. You can volunteer or donate in memory of working animals. See Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month for practical ideas.
• Remember your own companions. Pet parents can find gentle ideas in Pet Remembrance Day and paw prints that last a lifetime.

How to behave around working dogs

If you meet a working or service dog in public, a few simple manners help.

1. Do not pet or distract it. A working dog is concentrating on a job.
2. Ask the handler first. If the handler says yes, follow their instructions.
3. Keep your own dog calm and at a distance. Use a leash and give them space.
4. Teach children to do the same. It is a lesson in respect.

What it means for pet parents

Most of our dogs will never serve on a battlefield, but every dog can learn and contribute in some way. Training your dog well is one way to make them a good neighbour. See early dog training to get started. For more on thoughtful pet parenting, visit our responsible pet parenting hub and Pet life in India.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the war memorial for service dogs?

According to the report, it is being set up at the Remount and Veterinary Corps Centre and College in Meerut.

Who will be named on it?

The memorial is to include the names of 300 dogs and more than 300 handlers, along with horses and some mules.

Which animals does it honour?

It honours dogs mainly, and also horses and mules, that served and were lost, including in Kargil and counter-insurgency operations.

Can I pet a service dog I meet in public?

Please do not, unless the handler invites you to. The dog is working and needs to concentrate.

Source: The Print

By Team Stepevoli.