Protective Boots for Deployed Military Working Dogs
Canine vehicle screening operations in desert environments are limited by extreme ground temperatures, which can average 120 to 140°F during the day. Canine handlers have resorted to pouring water on the ground to cool it off long enough for the canines to search vehicles at a checkpoint. To prolong the working time of the dogs on hot ground, TSWG purchased and evaluated canine boots for use in a screening operation. Initial feedback from the handlers is that the boots extend the working time of the canines. The boots also provide protection for the canines in environments where they could step on shattered glass and other debris. Individual dogs preferred different styles of boots. Additional information can be obtained from Thera-Paw, Inc. at http://www.therapaw.net, and Ruff Wear, Inc. at http://www.ruffwear.com.