Trained Dogs to Help Protect Military from Radiation

Due to the increased risk of radiation incidents caused by shelling by russian troops and hostilities near Ukrainian nuclear power plants, the British company Kromek will send trained dogs equipped with radiation detectors to Ukraine. The real-time data collected on radiation levels will be transmitted to military dog handlers by phone. This technology will help protect soldiers on the ground from radiation exposure.

Kromek detectors, manufactured in the UK, are characterized by their sensitivity and are triggered even at the lowest levels of radiation, which allows dogs to be removed from hazard and protected. In addition, the detectors can determine the nature of the radioactive material, for example, whether it is plutonium or uranium.

How does it work? Dogs are equipped with detectors attached to their harnesses and special equipment to protect their eyes and paws. The cynologist carries a phone with an application that notifies him of the radiation. If the dog gets too close to a radiation source, an alarm will be sent to the phone within a second. 

Earlier in 2023, the Ukrainian military received 50 dogs to search for mines and explosives. The animals were trained under a program of the European Commission in cooperation with the Belgian army.