Small dog Patron became a real star not only in Ukraine, but also far beyond its borders. Outwardly, Patron looks like a Jack Russell Terrier, but he fell in love not so much with his cute appearance as with his unique talent — the dog can sniff out mines and other explosive «surprises» that the invaders left in Ukrainian soil. Lately, Patron has had a lot of work to do, and he does it brilliantly, for which he deservedly received the title of hero.
The use of dogs to search for mines was resorted to in the Second World War. In civilian life, dogs help detect leaks of poisonous chemicals and explosive gases in mines. Dogs have an innate talent for distinguishing certain scents from background scents, but it takes professional training to hone these skills.
The center of the dog’s brain responsible for smell is almost 40 times larger than the corresponding center in humans, so animals distinguish aromas much better. That’s why Patron is so good at his job.
“People have never been able to develop anything that could replace the ability of dogs to distinguish smells.
Not a single robot can cope with this task like a dog after appropriate training, ” says the director of K-9, the US canine squad.
Despite the high responsibility at work, outside of it, Patron is an ordinary active dog of two years, whose favorite treat is cheese.
Dogs are used to search for mines around the world, now about 750 four-legged are involved in such work.
