KUNO-THE BELGIAN DOG TO BE HONOURED IN THE UK

Kuno- a 4-year old Belgian Malinois, will receive the Dickin Medal from vet

charity-PDSA for charging through enemy gunfire to save the lives of british

soldiers fighting al-Qaeda in Afghanistan. The dog, which was trained by its handler

to detect weapons, explosives and incapacitate enemies, had been deployed last

year in a night raid against the extremist group. Kuno, who has suffered many

injuries and shots, and a surgery is anxiously awaiting the ceremony after

retirement this November. It will become the 72nd recipient of the prestigious

award since it was introduced by Maria Dickin CBE in 1943. Being the highest award

any animal can achieve while serving in military conflict, it is the equivalent of the

Victoria Cross. 34 dogs, 32 world war 2 messenger pigeons, 4 horses and a cat have

been so honoured.