Lifesaving Labrador to be honoured

An army search dog whose super sense of smell has saved countless soldiers’ lives is to be given the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross.

Treo, a nine-year-old black Labrador, who was part of the 104 Military Working Dogs Support Unit, will receive the honour at a special ceremony organised by the PDSA at the Imperial War Museum.

The dog will become the 63rd animal to be awarded the Dickin Medal and will be joined by his handler, sergeant Dave Heyoe, at the ceremony tomorrow (February 25th).

Sergeant Heyoe said he has a great affection for the pooch, who he has worked with for the last five years.

"Everyone will say that he is just a military working dog – yes, he is, but he is also a very good friend of mine. We look after each other," he stated.

Troops from C Company, 3rd Battalion The Rifles want Tangye, another black Labrador whose nose has saved their lives more than once, to be given a permanent home in the UK when his stint in Afghanistan is finished.

Posted by Samantha Thompson