There are various unique roles within the MGS, including my own as a Dog Handler.
Meet Wraith
I work with Wraith, a two-year-old Belgian Malinois, who is one of our invaluable patrol dogs at DMS Whittington, in Staffordshire.
While he is highly trained patrol dog, who performs his role perfectly, in his down time, Wraith is a really energetic dog who loves to chase his toys and has a particular fondness for squirrels.
As most of my 12-hour shifts are spent with Wraith by my side, we have a great bond together, very different to the one you would have with a pet dog. He is brilliant and I know he will have my back at work should a dangerous situation or threat ever arise.
Always training
Wraith’s initial training was at the Defence Animal Training Regiment, in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, before he was assigned to work with me in the MGS.
But his training didn’t stop there, our MGS dogs regularly undertake Continuation Training to ensure they are always ready to protect our people. This comprises training on agility, obedience, restraint and manipulation, man work or bite work, conditioning, distraction and patrolling.
One of the most challenging times in my career was getting my first dog licence before I was teamed up with my first dog, Ziva, who has now retired. During the course, I was assessed on all aspects of dog handling, including dog welfare, obedience and the strict criteria for when you can and cannot release your dog.
The hard work paid off though, and I was delighted to be given the Top Student Award by the course instructors.
Interested in working with us?
I’ve been with the MGS for three years now, and knew working with dogs was what I wanted after being invited to see how the MOD Police train their dogs.
My advice for anyone considering becoming an MGS Dog Handler would be to go for it. If you love dogs, this could be job for you – plus getting chased by a dog in a bite sleeve is great fun!
Interested in joining the Ministry of Defence Guard Service? See our current vacancies and apply on the Civil Service Jobs website.
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