Military working dogs are typically retired from service at the age of 10-12 years. Upon retirement, they may be adopted out to their handlers or civilian families who can provide them with the care and attention they need.
How long do dogs serve in the military?
Military working dogs typically serve for around 10-12 years, depending on their health and performance. Some dogs may be honorably discharged earlier due to physical or mental health issues, while others may serve longer. Dogs that are trained for explosives and drug detection are usually trained for about 4 months before being deployed.
What happens to US military dogs when they retire?
When US military dogs retire, they are typically adopted out to their handlers or to the public. If the handler is unable to take them, the dogs are offered up to the public through adoption programs. In some cases, the dogs are also adopted by other law enforcement agencies or other government agencies. In addition, some retired military dogs are sent to special retirement homes, such as the Warrior Dog Foundation in Texas, which provides a safe and loving home for retired military working dogs.
What happens to military dogs when they retire UK?
Military dogs that retire in the UK are typically adopted by their handlers or another family member, or rehomed with a new family. In some cases, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) will also offer to rehome retired military dogs, although this is relatively rare. As the MoD states, retired police and military dogs can be adopted by their handlers if they meet the necessary criteria.
At what age do military dogs retire in India?
Military dogs in India typically retire at the age of 8 or 9. When the time comes for the dogs to retire, they are given an honorable retirement by the Indian Army. After retirement, the dogs may be adopted by their handlers or be sent to special retirement homes for military working dogs.