A recent report from the Department of Defense Inspector General has raised alarms about the health and living conditions of military working dogs. Conducted between 2021 and 2023, the investigation revealed that aging and unsatisfactory kennel facilities contributed to the deaths of four military dogs. The report highlights severe issues at 10 of the 12 locations inspected, including mold infestations at Fort Bragg in North Carolina and Joint Base Langley-Fort Eustis in Virginia.
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Chris Willingham, a former Marine dog handler and president of the United States War Dogs Association, expressed his shock at the findings, stating that the conditions described were not his experience during service. He emphasized the importance of providing high-quality care for these dogs as they deserve top treatment.
The report detailed alarming situations at various facilities, such as unsafe living conditions, with Fort Bragg leaders prioritizing mold remediation in housing and dining areas instead of the kennel facilities. At Langley, inspectors observed trenches filled with standing water and canine waste, with handlers claiming they could not secure funding to construct new facilities.
At Joint Base San Antonio–Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, where the Air Force trains working dogs for multiple services, the situation was also dire. Inspectors reported that dogs were exercised only 10 minutes at a time, four times a week due to understaffing. Efforts to enhance their engagement through non-physical means like audio books and scented bubble machines have been introduced, but these measures may not be sufficient. The report indicated that as of 2023, 22% of the 520 dogs at Lackland were affected by internal diseases, and the Air Force acknowledged the death of three dogs at their training facility.
Inspections at Camp Pendleton and Naval Base San Diego found all 17 dogs at Pendleton sick and suffering from heat-related issues, attributing some of these conditions to the aging facilities that expose them to harsh elements. Along with a decreased number of working dog teams in recent years, there are concerns that the military may be deprioritizing this essential program.
Willingham hopes that the Inspector General's report will lead to necessary changes and do not signal a reduced commitment to the welfare of military working dogs. This story was produced by the American Homefront Project, a collaboration focusing on American military life and veteran issues.