INTERVIEW: ‘Glory Hounds’ finds dogs, soldiers keeping company

Have a look at your dog lying on the ground at your feet. With his ears tucked back, his teeth exposed, his tongue lolling about, his eyes holding onto a perfectly timed tear, his need for food constantly on his mind, the pooch probably looks like a lovable companion and hardly an American hero. In a couple seconds, he’ll probably fall asleep, go grab some food or drink out of the toilet.

Could this four-legged animal have greater aspirations? Could he take down terrorists in foreign countries?

Probably not, but there are dogs that can.

Animal Planet’s new two-hour special Glory Hounds, which premieres Feb. 21 at 8 p.m., tells the tale of military working dogs, animals that risk their lives alongside specially-trained soldiers.

Recently, Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with Technical Sgt. Len Anderson, who is featured on the show.

How did you get involved working with military working dogs?

I got involved in the military working dog program back in 2006. I wanted a new challenge in my career and loved the type of work and training to which I would be exposed.

For someone who understands the dog’s role in combat, how do they protect you and the soldiers?

K9 teams in a combat environment play a huge role in protecting and saving lives. They have the ability to find and sense thing(s) that no human nor machine can. Their ability to locate and pinpoint explosives allow safe passage to get the mission done… A definite force multiplier.

Do they wear protective gear? Is it difficult to take care of a dog’s needs in Afghanistan?

Every dog has different gear mostly depending on the handlers preference. It’s very hard to put Kevlar type vests on the dogs because of the heat issue, which could become (a) big problem during the middle of a mission. As far as their needs, we do a lot of planning and preparing for taking care of their needs. It can be hard at times but we take into account emergency situations so that we are prepared. And if something does happen, the fellow soldiers do everything to take care of the team as one of their own.

Do you grow attached to these dogs? Have you had to experience a dog casualty in the field?

We do get attached to the dogs, they are your partners … your fellow soldiers that will always have your back. But we all understand that it is part of the job. I have not experienced a casualty of a dog in the field. Thank God!! I can’t begin to imagine how hard that would be.

Why is it important to tell the story of these military working dogs for American viewers?

I think that it is important for the American viewers to see the life of a military working dog and how well trained they are. They will give you their hearts and souls but ask only for your love in return. It’s not all about the amazing bonds that are made between handler and dog but the ability they have to bring everyone home safe. They are very intelligent animals who lay their lives on the line every day.

By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com

• Glory Hounds premieres Feb. 21 at 8 p.m. on Animal Planet.