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Taking Care of 4-Legged Warriors Saves Soldiers Lives Too

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany (Aug. 8, 2013) – Veterinary care for military working dogs is essential to keeping four-legged warriors “mission ready,” both in garrison and downrange.

That’s why the Baumholder, Germany-based 64th Medical Detachment (Veterinary Services), took time recently to brush up on their skills prior to their deployment to Afghanistan. On July 24, Dog Center Europe personnel tested the detachment’s skills and assessed their readiness, during training at U.S. Army Garrison Kaiserslautern’s Pulaski Barracks.

Their goal was to hone their abilities in garrison to prepare for the challenges of a deployed environment, said Maj. Kent Vince, an Army veterinarian who is the center’s director.

“It’s imperative that these teams get training in clinical medicine before going downrange,” Vince said. “You never know what they might face when they’re down there.”

Since ancient times, military working dogs were used as front line attackers, guard dogs, scouts and messengers. More recently they’ve been used to detect explosives. They’ve even been attributed as saving thousands of lives during conflicts in Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Army values its canine corps and specifically trains a dedicated cadre of veterinarians and technicians to take care of the health of these often courageous animals. Members of the 64th said they take every chance they get to work on bettering themselves, said Army Capt. Lindsey Day, a veterinary corps officer.

“This was another opportunity to practice our skills, and a chance to work together,” Day said.

Three teams of veterinarians and technicians performed surgeries while being observed and evaluated. Spc. Nicole Lamanna, an Army animal care specialist, said, she loves the atmosphere.

“Every chance I get to work in a clinic is amazing,” Lamanna said. “It just shows I can use what I’ve learned under stress.”

Veterinarians also offer first aid training for dog handlers – information that once helped Air Force Staff Sgt. Jonathan Forgham, from the 86th Security Forces Squadron, whose canine partner severely injured his head when jumping through a window.

“We had to rush him across the base to get him to the veterinarian,” Forgham said. “The whole time I was in the cage with him stopping the bleeding. We got to use the training they gave us and it helped.”

The care veterinary teams offer to working dogs in turn pays off for humans.

“Not only are dogs lives dependent on you, but also humans’ lives,” Lamanna said. “The dogs save lives. So, by saving the dog, we’re saving other Soldiers.”

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Filed Under: Army, News

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Fort Bragg Renamed to Fort Liberty

JUNE 3, 2023 – Hundreds of veterans, dignitaries, and military Family members joined at the Main Post Flagpole to witness Fort Bragg’s historic redesignation to Fort Liberty at 9 a.m. June 2. The Defense Department last year approved proposals to remove the names of Confederate officers from nine military bases, including Fort Bragg and Fort […]

Reserves Offer $10K Bonus for Prior-Service Enlisted Airmen

APRIL 5, 2023 – To remain competitive in a tight labor market and retain valuable talent, Air Force Reserve Command is offering a $10,000 incentive bonus to fully-qualified, prior-service enlisted Airmen who sign up to fill open positions and agree to a three-year service commitment. One of several incentives available to those who join the […]

Junior at DoD Education Activity High School Wins Second Place

MAY 23, 2023 – Mckenzie Mitchell, a junior at a Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) high school, recently was honored in the 61st annual National Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS) for her research on depression in flies. JSHS is a Department of Defense-sponsored event administered by the National Science Teaching Association which encourages […]

How to Use Your Military Background to the Fullest

MAY 23, 2023 – For many veterans, transitioning from military to civilian life can be a daunting task. While the skills and experiences gained during military service are valuable, translating them into a successful civilian career can be challenging. However, with the right mindset and approach, veterans can use their military background to their advantage. […]

DOD Updates Overseas Cost-of-Living Allowance Adjustment Process

MAY 3, 2023 – The Overseas Cost-of-Living Allowance (OCOLA) is an allowance that ensures our Service members who are assigned to a permanent duty station outside the contiguous U.S. (OCONUS) (i.e., foreign countries, U.S. territories, Alaska, and Hawaii) maintain the same level of purchasing power as Service members stationed in CONUS locations — not less […]

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