Sad end to Army dogs and horses

TEN horses and 62 dogs serving in the military were put down last year, figures show.

Behavioural issues, old age and ill health are among reasons given by the Ministry of Defence which revealed the figure to Labour MP Kevan Jones, a former defence minister, in response to a written question.

Mr Jones said: “The MoD have got to ensure euthanisation is a last resort for these animals, which are used to help the defence effort of our country.”

But the Minister for Defence Veterans, Reserves and Personnel Mark Lancaster insisted: “Decisions... are only taken by a veterinarian officer after all possible treatment avenues have been exhausted and where it is considered to be the most humane option for the animal.”