Kuga the Hero Dog's Story of Bravery

Kuga was a three-year-old German Shepherd who lived in Japan.

He was a loyal companion to his owner, a police officer, and was trained to assist him in his duties.

Kuga's bravery and loyalty were put to the test when he was involved in a dramatic rescue operation.

He saved a two-year-old boy from a swollen river, earning him the title of Hero Dog.

The rescue operation was a remarkable display of Kuga's training and instincts.

He swam out to the boy and brought him back to safety, where he was reunited with his relieved parents.

Here's an interesting read: Rescue Dogs as Service Dogs

Kuga, a Belgian Malinois, received the prestigious PDSA Dickin Medal for his remarkable actions in Afghanistan in 2011.

He was posthumously awarded the medal, making him the first Australian dog to receive it in its 75-year history.

Kuga's actions undoubtedly saved the lives of his patrol, and he took on the enemy without fear, saving his comrades despite suffering serious injury.

The medal was formally presented to Kuga's canine colleague, retired Military Working Dog Odin.

Kuga's PDSA Dickin Medal is a testament to his bravery and selflessness, and it's a reminder of the important role that military working dogs play in conflict zones.

The PDSA Dickin Medal is the highest award any animal can achieve while serving in military conflict, and Kuga is the 71st recipient of the medal.

Kuga's actions that day in Afghanistan were heroic, and there's no doubt in anybody's mind that he saved lives.

For your interest: Fun Facts about Military Dogs

Kuga was evacuated and then treated by veterinary staff in Afghanistan, Germany, and Australia, with the aim of rehabilitating him.

The stress and injuries were too much for Kuga, and he sadly passed away on 24 July 2012. His death is officially recorded as 'Died of Wounds'.

On 26 October 2018, Kuga was posthumously awarded the 71st Dickin Medal for bravery by the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA).

The Dickin Medal was received on Kuga's behalf by a Victoria Cross recipient, Mark Donaldson VC, who was also a Special forces dog handler, along with another military dog, Odin.

Kuga's heroism was recognized for his courageous actions that day, and his medal was a testament to his bravery.

His handler said, "I'm pretty proud of what Kuga did that day. He's the one who chose to go forward, he's the one who chose to take bullets for both me and my mates. Ultimately that enabled me to come home to my family."