SASEBO NAVAL BASE, Japan -- It can be tough work owning a dog. There’s the bathing, cleaning, feeding, barking and the constant need for attention.
But for military working dog handlers, it’s all in the job description.
Not only are the Marines challenged with training man’s best friend for saving lives, but they are tasked with being its primary care giver.
“Being a military working dog handler is a 24/7 job,” said Cpl. Joseph S. Singleton, dog handler and native of Mt. Pleasant, N.C. “Just because you are working normal hours doesn’t mean your job stops. We are always on call.”
“Our dog’s health is our responsibility. We have to make sure he is capable of accomplishing the mission,” added Singleton.
Every work day begins with kennel care. Kennel care consists of a doggy potty break, a cage spray down and dog chow.
“We are training these dogs to save lives,” said Lance Cpl. Shaun B. Dockrill, dog handler and native of Stow, Ohio. “I think 30 minutes in the morning and at night for kennel care is a small price to pay.”
After kennel care is complete, the Marines head to different training sites throughout the Station to conduct detection training or patrolling.
“We don’t want the training to become repetitive and have the dog get bored,” said Singleton. “So we switch up the training everyday between either detection or patrolling.”
Throughout the day’s training evolution, the Marines are constantly conducting health check points.
“When we conduct health check points, we check for new cuts and lumps,” said Cpl. Alfred C. Nieto, dog handler and native of San Antonio. “We also check the dog’s eyes, nose, pads, paw and teeth.”
Even though it’s part of the leathernecks’ job to take care of the dog, many form strong bonds with their animals.
“Where else in the Marine Corps can you go to work everyday and no matter what mood you are in, that dog is always happy to see you,” said Singleton. “It is a loyalty issue; if you build rapport with the dog he will do anything for you and be your best friend.”
But once the dog gets too old, which is usually around 8 to 12 years old, the dog has to be either euthanized or adopted out. If the dog has sociable behavior or can socially adapt to people, he will be adopted out.
For 12-year-old Alan, Singleton’s dog, he is on his last chapter in the Marine Corps.
“I have been Alan’s handler for two years, added Singleton. “Once you have been with an animal that long you share a bond with each other. Alan is more than just a pet to me, he is my guardian.”
“Alan has done his time; he has served more time in the Marine Corps than most Marines,” smiled Singleton. “In June, I plan on adopting him. I want him to live his last few years as a normal dog and enjoy his retirement.”