Bomb-sniffing dog 'Patron' awarded by Zelensky

• Image Credit: Internet

• May 9, 2022 | Dhupali Das

Moreover, Patron's owner Myhailo Iliev was also honoured with an award. 

Digital Desk: On Sunday, President Volodymyr Zelensky awarded a medal to Ukraine's famous mine-sniffing dog 'Patron' and his owner for their committed service since Russia's invasion.

Since the start of the war on Feb. 24, the tiny Jack Russell terrier has been credited with detecting more than 200 explosives and preventing their detonation, swiftly becoming a canine icon of Ukrainian patriotism.

At a news conference in Kyiv with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Zelensky presented the award. Patron barked and wagged his tail, driving the crowd to laugh. Trudeau rummaged through his pockets as if looking for a dog treat.

"Today,I want to award those Ukrainian heroes who are already clearing our land of mines. And, alongside our heroes, a great young sapper named Patron, who not only helps to neutralise explosives but also to teach our children the required safety guidelines in regions where mines are present," Zelensky stated in a statement after the event. 

Moreover, Patron's owner Myhailo Iliev was also honoured with an award.