The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has awarded a new contract aimed at supporting and training over 500 military working dogs across various branches of the UK’s armed forces.
The five-year contract, with the option for a two-year extension, has been granted to Von Wolf K9 Sport & Service Dog Equipment Limited, a Surrey-based company specialising in canine equipment. The contract, valued at £3.1 million for the full term, is set to ensure the welfare and training of these vital working dogs.
Von Wolf K9, a Small Medium Enterprise (SME) currently employing four staff members, will create an additional role as part of this contract. The company will supply a broad range of equipment and training aids for the military dogs, who serve in the Army, RAF, Ministry of Defence Police (MDP), Germany Guard Service, MOD Guard Service, and as Regimental Mascots.
Canine Catalogue Ensures Welfare and Training
The MOD’s Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) branch has developed the Canine Support Solution to enhance the welfare and training of the dogs, who play a critical role in protecting the nation. The military working dogs, ranging from German Shepherds, Belgian Shepherds, and Dutch Shepherds to Springer Spaniels and Labradors, perform various duties, including detecting explosives, arms, vehicles, and drugs, and providing protection and assistance to their handlers.
The Canine Support Solution will provide a ‘canine catalogue’ of essential training and welfare items, such as protective gear. This includes goggles to protect the dogs’ eyes, hearing protection, safety boots, cool vests, and flotation devices for physical and environmental protection. The focus is on both detection and protection, ensuring the dogs remain active and stimulated throughout their service.
Liam Brown, SEEC Operations Manager at DE&S, emphasised the importance of the contract: “The welfare and security of all Military Working Dogs and handlers is of paramount importance to us, and this contract with Von Wolf will enhance our offering by catering to their needs and specific requirements in the most efficient way.”
Stimulating Equipment for Service Dogs
The contract also covers a wide array of products aimed at keeping the military working dogs engaged and enriched throughout their service. This includes everyday items such as waste bags, bowls, leads, and harnesses, as well as more specialised training equipment like exercise aids, agility tunnels, weave poles, jumps, and toys. These items will help ensure that the dogs remain in peak condition and are prepared for their roles, whether they are involved in day-to-day operations or specialised missions.
Von Wolf K9 Director, Sally Dickinson, expressed her pride in securing the contract: “As a trusted partner to the Ministry of Defence, we at Von Wolf K9 Sport & Service Dog Equipment are incredibly proud and excited to be awarded this contract. It underscores our commitment to providing the best possible support to the UK’s military working dogs, ensuring they have the equipment needed to thrive in both training and operational environments.”
Maintaining Welfare Standards
The equipment supplied through the Canine Support Solution will meet the standards set by the Government’s Animal Welfare Act 2006, ensuring that all five welfare needs are addressed. The contract will help the MOD maintain its high welfare standards, as outlined in the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) Code of Practice for the welfare of dogs.
This new contract not only enhances the welfare and training of military working dogs but also underscores the vital role they play in maintaining the UK’s security both at home and overseas.
