The hunting hound species - Mudhol - will now be in the service of the nation, with their induction into the Army. Six of these canines were handed over to the authorities of the Indian Army’s Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) Centre and College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh at a programme in Bengaluru recently.
The Mudhol dogs thus became the first native breed to be serving the Indian Army. The dogs of this breed can be found at Mudhol in the district and surrounding areas.
Lieutenant Colonel N Prakash said at the ceremony to hand over the dogs that the canines would join duty after they are given the necessary training. The dogs will be trained in bomb detection, defence skills and detective abilities.
Army veterinarian Lieutenant Colonel Surinder Saini has examined the dogs and has said that they are eligible to serve in the Army.
The services of the canines will be utilised in the areas of detection of criminals, vigil against acts of terrorism and other military activities. Dr Suresh S Honnappagol, who works as the commissioner of the department of animal husbandry of the central government, is credited with efforts to make the Mudhol dogs ready to be inducted into the Army. Honnappagol is a native of Bagalkot district.