Retired Army Dog With Prosthetic Paws Receives Highest Animal Honor Medal

Mariel Ruvinsky • Writer and Editor

Dec 13, 2020 10:00 AM EST

A hero that everyone can't help but adore, Kuno, retired British Army Working Dog who served in Afghanistan has received the highest animal honor possible - the Dickin Medal. the award was given to him for his incredible actions and bravery during a 2019 operation against one of Al Qaeda's compounds, which you can read about below. The poor pooch was injured during the operation - both of his legs getting shot, one bullet narrowly missing a main artery, but he is a fighter, and as bravely he fought then, he continues fighting now, brandishing the more than well-deserved medal on his fluffy doggo chest.

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via PDSA

As reported by People, the heroic 4-year-old dog was supporting the British special forces in fighting Al Qaeda in Afghanistan and had suffered life-altering injuries during that time. The troops went in to attack a well-armed Al Qaeda compound and were unfortunately met by "a heavy barrage of grenades and machine-gun fire launched by an insurgent equipped with night vision goggles, who had concealed himself in the compound." And with the troops stuck in place, "it fell to Kuno to break the deadlock."
Kuno, the absolutely amazing pooch who had already "incapacitated one insurgent and discovered a stash of hidden explosives during the raid," was released by his handler and ran through the compound's doorway to attack the insurgent. Surprised by Kuno, the insurgent began firing everywhere and shot Kuno in both of his hind legs. That did not stop Kuno though. Amazingly, he continued attacking the insurgent and wrestled him to the ground, only ever taking a rest when the rest of the assault force entered the courtyard.
via PDSA

For his incredible actions, Kuno was "awarded the Dickin Medal – the highest award any animal can receive within the British military – from the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals" (PDSA). Jan McLoughlin from the PDSA veterinary charity said that "Kuno is a true hero," and we couldn't agree more.
"His actions that day undoubtedly changed the course of a vital mission, saving multiple lives in the process. And despite serious, life-changing injuries, he performed his duty without faltering," added McLoughlin. "For this bravery and devotion to duty, we are honored to welcome him as the latest recipient of the PDSA Dickin."
via PDSA

Despite receiving immediate care in the back of a helicopter, before Kuno is healthy enough to go back to the UK, Kuno still needed multiple major operations, one of which required the amputation of both of his legs to prevent a fatal infection. Don't worry though, because this incredible dog has made a full recovery, and he has 'become the first U.K. Military Working Dog to be fitted with custom-made prosthetic limbs."
via PDSA

British defense secretary, Ben Wallace, said: "I'm delighted that Kuno will receive the PDSA Dickin Medal. It is a testament to his training, tireless bravery, and devotion to duty which undoubtedly saved lives that day." Adding, "I am very proud of the role our military working dogs play on operations at home and abroad. Kuno's story reminds us of the lengths these animals go to keep us all safe."
via PDSA

We want to say thank you to kuno and all of the incredible dogs serving in the military as well, because these heroic dogs are deserving of thanks and much, much more. Kuno better get as many snacks as he could possibly want now. He's more than earned them.
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