Military dog to receive highest bravery award

Kuno, a three-year-old Belgian Shepherd Malinois who was credited with saving the lives of British troops when he bravely charged through a hail of gunfire during a mission in Afghanistan last year, is to become only the 72nd recipient of the prestigious PDSA Dickin Medal.

He was wounded by bullets in both back legs and given life-saving treatment by his handler and by medics in the back of a helicopter.

Kuno’s injuries were so severe he required several operations before he was stable enough to fly back to the UK and part of one of his rear paws had to be amputated to prevent life-threatening infection.

When he arrived home, the brave dog was transferred to the DATR in Melton where he had major reconstructive surgery, overseen by Professor Dick White, one of the world’s leading specialists in canine surgery.

Under the painstaking care of Army vets, veterinary nurses and canine physiotherapists, assisted by staff from the University of Nottingham, Kuno then embarked upon an innovative and lengthy programme of rehabilitation to restore function to his nerves and muscles, just as injured service personnel do.

He was the first UK military working dog to be fitted with custom made prosthetic limbs but has now retired from service and is living happily with a family.

The PDSA decided to award him the Dickin Medal, which was introduced in 1943, because of his actions in breaking the deadlock when troops were pinned down by grenade and machine-gun fire from Al Qaeda insurgents and casualties appeared to be unavoidable.

Jan McLoughlin, the organisation’s director general, said: “Kuno’s heroic actions undoubtedly changed the course of the mission and saved lives.

“He took on the enemy without fear or hesitation, never faltering from his duty despite being seriously injured.

“For his bravery and devotion to duty, he is a thoroughly deserving recipient of the PDSA Dickin Medal and we look forward to formally presenting his award later this year.”

Kuno, who follows 34 other dogs, 32 wartime messenger pigeons, four horses and a cat in getting the honour, will receive his medal in a virtual ceremony in November.

Col Neil Smith QHVS, the chief veterinary and remount officer, said: “It is important that Military Working Dogs receive a high level of care if they are unfortunately injured, and defence has military vets and vet nurses to ensure animals receive the care and rehabilitation they deserve.

“Kuno is an amazing dog in many ways, and we are delighted that the PDSA have decided to award him their Dickin Medal.”

Kuno, who was on just his second delployment when he was injured, was said to be a friendly and enthusiastic patient throughout his rehab - he loves human interaction and especially enjoyed his sessions on the hydrotherapy treadmill.

Within months, he was strong enough to be fitted with a pioneering custom-made prosthesis to replace his missing paw, alongside an orthotic brace to support his injured limb.

Lightweight and fully bespoke, they enable him to run and jump as he wishes, giving him a great quality of life for many years to come.

Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace, added his praise to the dog’s brave actions: “Without Kuno, the course of this operation could have been very different, and it’s clear he saved the lives of British personnel that day.

“This particular raid was one of the most significant achievements against Al Qaeda in several years.

“Kuno’s story reminds us not only of the dedicated service of our soldiers and military dogs, but also the great care that the UK Armed Forces provide to the animals that serve alongside them.”