Working as a Dog Handler in the Royal Army Veterinary Corps is an incredibly fulfilling role that allows me to combine my passion for animals with military service. I take great pride in building a strong working partnership with my Military Working Dog, knowing that our skills directly contribute to the safety and effectiveness of operations. The role is both physically and mentally challenging, offering variety each day and constant opportunities to learn and develop. Whether on exercise, deployment, or during routine training, I find real purpose in the responsibility of caring for and deploying alongside such highly trained and capable animals. Being part of a specialist team within the wider Army also gives me a strong sense of professional pride.

One of my greatest achievements as a Dog Handler in the Royal Army Veterinary Corps was successfully operating alongside NATO allies during the Cambrian Patrol exercise. I was responsible for deploying with my MWD, alongside 3 other Dog Handlers, on this international recognised exercise to support patrol‘s and act as a visual deterrent on a reconnaissance tasking. The experience enhanced my confidence, adaptability, and appreciation for international military cooperation, and it reinforced the critical value that Dog Handlers bring to complex, joint operations.