January 21 marks World Working Dog Day, which aims to recognize the incredible work of working dogs and their handlers, as well as raise awareness about the importance of ensuring a dignified retirement for these four-legged heroes.
What is a working dog?
Working dogs are those that perform vital tasks in areas such as security, rescue, and assistance to people with special needs.
Most working dogs, which are part of police units, the armed forces, and other similar institutions, perform tasks such as searching for missing persons, detecting explosives and narcotics, and rescuing people in major disasters.
“Tell the world what I’m worth”
In Spain, the non-profit association Héroes de 4 Patas (Four-Legged Heroes) and Elanco’s Dejemos Huella (Let’s Leave a Mark) program have created a campaign with the slogan “Tell the world what I’m worth.” Its goal is to raise awareness in society about the indispensable role of working dogs, as these dogs not only risk their lives every day, but also need, like any other worker, adequate working conditions and legislation that regulates both their active stage and their well-deserved retirement.
Currently, in many countries, there are no regulations to protect these dogs during their working life or after their retirement.
The importance of legislation to protect them
Although their contribution to society is undeniable, these animals are not protected by legislation once they have completed their service.
Many of them, after years of tireless work, cannot stay with their guides and need to be adopted. This is where the work of the Héroes de 4 Patas association comes in. Since 2015, it has found homes for more than 600 retired dogs. However, a law is still needed to guarantee them a dignified retirement.
“Adopt a Retiree” Campaign
Every year, the association Héroes de 4 Patas (Four-Legged Heroes) runs a campaign called #AdoptaUnJubilado (Adopt a Retiree), in which they try to find homes for dogs that have worked for years and need a family after they retire.
One of the most important actions of the campaign is the Solidarity Calendar, in which influential people get involved to collaborate and are photographed with some of the dogs to create a charity calendar.
In most cases, it is the guide themselves who keeps their companion, but sometimes this is not possible, and that is when Héroes de 4 Patas steps in to find a suitable home for each dog.
How can we help working dogs?
We can all contribute to this noble cause by doing our bit.
- Spread the word on social media. Use the hashtags #TellTheWorldWhatImWorth and #WorldWorkingDogDay to share information about the importance of working dogs.
- If you are thinking of adopting a pet, consider giving a home to a retired working dog. After years of service, these animals deserve a peaceful and loving life.
- If you cannot adopt, consider making a donation to associations that support working dogs. Financial contributions or donations of supplies can make a big difference.
