Handler Feedback

Sent:       08 August 2011
From:     Camp Leatherneck IDD
              Kennel Handlers
Subject:   MWD Equipment

The doggles work great for the IDDs (Improvised Explosive Detection Dogs). We have been having a lot of windstorms out here. The handlers put them on when it is real windy and hazy. I have three that work around vehicles a lot and the dust was really affecting the dogs. Now you can tell the difference. This has really helped especially during helicopter operations where the dirt is kicked up.

During helo operations, ear muffs and doggles have helped the dog relax during flight and they are ready to work when we get off. They can be easily removed and they are easy to store.

ECP/VCP operations tend to be hotter due to vehicles and equipment moving. The cooling vests have helped out a lot and keep the dogs working. The extra cooling packs make it easy to keep rotating them. It took some time getting used to the vest but now it is not a problem. The armor cooling vests have helped out a lot. I use mine everyday at ECP/VCP.
~ Cpl Hidalgo, Leo IDD Starr

The heat out here is murder on the dog's pad. The dog would jump up and down due to the heat on the ground. Before it was just pad coat but with the booties the dogs are not bothered and once back at patrol base they come off to store.
~ LcplMartinez , Oscar IDD Thor

The cooling vests help out at the patrol base where the heat index is high. The cooling packs don't take long to cool.
~ LCpl Lopez, Jose IDD Bandit

The booties help out a lot because the dirt is so hot. Before it was affecting her performance but she works as if nothing with them on.
~ Cpl Enriquez, David IDD Harley

The MRAP we had did not have any air condition. Had it not been for the cooling vest on Hunter he would've been affected by the heat. Had no problem and we were out all day.
~ Cpl Lira, Charlie IDD Hunter

The moondust like dirt is thick and gets into his eyes. With the goggles he doesn't have that problem. It took some adjustment but Gunner has no problem working in the moondust.
~ Cpl Cooper, Jonathan IDD Gunner.

Tori had really bad pads with the heat on the rocks. With the booties not a problem any more. We live to hunt for IED's.
~ LcplValles, Chuck IDD Tori

Fieldy had got his nail got in the MRAP a few times. I put them booties on in the MRAP and no problem getting off or getting on. The heat on his pads kept him looking for cool spots. You can tell the difference now.
~ LcplCaceras, Nick, IDDFieldy.
 

A letter of Thanks from a Handler

Sent:       Wed 8/3/2011 12:08 PM
From:      Damon, Antonio L SGT MIL USA
To:          Support Military Working Dogs
Subject:  Thank You

Hello,
        My name is SGT Damon from the Fort Knox Military Working Dog Kennels. I wanted to thank you for your donation of MWD Cooling Vests, Water Bowls, Mutt Muffs, Doggles and other items that were donated to our kennels. Although we have no dogs deployed at this time, this equipment will be used on upcoming deployments with our teams and is being used currently in preparing our MWDS for deployments during training and exercises including Helicopter Familiarization Flights.
        Having deployed from a different kennels with a MWD before, I know how valuable these items are in keeping the MWDs cool and protecting them from the various elements of the environment that can harm the dogs and takeus out of the fight.
        Again, from the MWD Kennels at Fort Knox, KY thank you very much for the items that were donated and thank you for all you do for Military Working Dog Teams around the world.

V/R
SGT Damon, Antonio, PEDD Handler

Go'n for a ride . . .

 
Ssgt Reynolds and MWD Kilo
Kabul, Afganistan

From: Ssgt Reynolds
Sent: Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Subject: S M W D Gear

We are doing really good on gear, thanks to you and the US War Dog Association. Sorry, we been pretty busy and most our dogs are out on missions but here are some pictures I had.

I currently have six teams assigned and we cover various locations throughout Kabul, we work with NATO and ISAF (International Assistance Force). Again, thank you for all your support, it really means the world to us out here! Some finds, some caves, some dogs, and some fun!

               

MWD Nick

MWD Enyas

MWD Toby

MWD Zack

MWD Wolf