ARMY dogs on the front line will get combat vests and blast goggles in a £3million kit upgrade.
Canine comrades will also be protected by ear defenders fitted in elastic “snoods” as they sniff out guns and bombs.
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Fleece-lined, rubber-soled boots to protect paws from temperature extremes, glass and shrapnel will also be available for the 500 dogs serving the Ministry of Defence.
Harnesses have buckles and D-rings to strap dogs to service personnel parachuting on to targets or fast-roping from a helicopter.
The kit has mounting points for cameras and antennae so handlers can see what their dog sees if they charge ahead into battle.
Troops can also fit floats to the harnesses to turn them into a life-jacket for animals on missions at sea.
Cooling vests that can be drenched with water in scorching conditions will also be available.
New training aides include tunnels, weave poles, jumps and toys to ensure their “lives are enriched throughout their time in service”.
German shepherds, Belgian malinois, springer spaniels and labradors serve in the Army, RAF, MoD Police and guard services.
The MoD said: “Dogs are the Armed Forces’ best friend and have invaluable roles in combat, from mine-clearing to sniffing out danger, to help keep Britain safe.”
Sally Dickinson, of Surrey-based VonWolf K9 Ltd, which has a five-year contract to supply equipment, said: “The safety and wellbeing of these remarkable animals play a crucial role in our nation’s security.”
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