Hero dog who has helped clear more than 800 deadly mines in war-torn Ukraine receives special recognition

Proceeds from this year’s Animal Purple Poppy Fund will be used to support the efforts of animal lovers and charities at home and abroad. Many of you have expressed to us your concern for abandoned animals in Ukraine as the conflict with Russia continues. Something we have been learning of first hand from our War Horse Memorial Special Ambassador, Nigel Allsopp, who has just returned from a second visit to that war-torn country.

On his travels, Nigel, President of the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation, met ALMAS, a wonderful German Shepherd whose extraordinary bravery and loyalty have been singled out for special recognition.

Nigel and the Australian Animal Aid team in Ukraine were invited to the Special Operations dog section in Kyiv. The Australian team members have been training border Force and Army canine teams in advanced combat K9 first aid. They also exchanged knowledge in mine and explosive detection techniques.

It was Nigel who contacted Australia’s major animal associations when it was decided to award a unique Australian war animal medallion to Ukraine. This medallion was first issued to the Ukraine Ambassador in Canberra who arranged for it to be awarded to the Colonel in charge of the Army dog unit.

In a ceremony in a forest not far from the dog unit’s location in Kyiv, the Australian Award was handed to ALMAS (which means diamond) and his handler. They also received a certificate of recognition for the brave work ALMAS has done during the War. The pair have located more than 800 deadly mines, left by Russian troops, in the recaptured area of northern Kyiv.

Nigel said: “What an honour it was for me to meet ALMAS and to hear about the painstaking work he and his handler are doing to clear the mines and make the land safe once more. True heroes of the Ukraine indeed, I think you will agree.”

“Many of you have expressed to us your concern for abandoned animals in Ukraine ”