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Zelensky gives war medal to dog that helped clear 200+ landmines in Ukraine
A Ukrainian mine-sniffing dog was awarded a medal by President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday to recognize his work so far during the Russian invasion
May 10, 2022 12:51am
Updated: May 10, 2022 9:47am
A Ukrainian mine-sniffing dog was awarded a medal by President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday to recognize his work so far during the Russian invasion.
Patron, a 2-year-old Jack Russel terrier, and his owner, Myhailo Iliev, have been credited with detecting more than 200 explosives since the start of the war.
"Today, I want to award those Ukrainian heroes who are already clearing our land of mines. And together with our heroes, a wonderful little sapper - Patron - who helps not only to neutralize explosives, but also to teach our children the necessary safety rules in areas where there is a mine threat," Zelensky said in a statement after the ceremony.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who was visiting the country, also attended the ceremony in Kyiv. When Patron barked at him, Trudeau pretended to check his pockets for a treat and apologized that he had none.
Patron was professionally trained to identify the smell of gunpowder, which he has used to help clear mines around the city of Chernihiv. He has become a minor celebrity and symbol of Ukrainian resistance in the face of Russian invaders.
Iliev, a major in Ukraine’s Civil Protection Service, told TODAY that he initially bought Patron as a pet for his son.
"He can inspire anyone with his appearance and eyes," Iliev said of how the canine lifted the spirits of his team.
Over 600 de-miners are working across Ukraine, and officials are working to recruit more. Iliev has worked as a pyrotechnician since 2014.
"In such a profession, everyone is afraid of something," Misha said.
"If you're not afraid of this, then it's time for you to change jobs, since you can inflict trouble on others."
Patron and his owner occasionally find time to play, according to TODAY.
"Patron just loves cheese," Misha said.
"He is a very active dog that likes to have a good run with other dogs and then, of course, sleep."
