Patron, a 2-year-old terrier, is winning the hearts of thousands of Ukrainians by becoming an expert in locating landmines and other unexploded weapons left behind by Russian soldiers. Ukraine’s Emergency Services Service estimates that Patron helped destroy a total of 262 landmines and explosive devices.
Patron is professionally trained to be a help dog for the disabled. But after the first Russian bombs fell on Ukraine, Patron began to learn how to detect mines.
Now, the little dog is working around the clock to find unexploded weapons in the town and vicinity of Chernihiv.
“(Patron) works 24/7,” Misha, owner of Patron, told TODAY Parents. “It will take about a year and a half to clean up the city. The whole area, [it took] about three to four years.”
To find mines and explosives left behind by the Russians, Patron learned to identify the smell of gunpowder. When Patron sniffed it, he immediately gave a signal to Misha. Misha will then join the colleagues in the demining team to carry out the disposal operation.“It all depends on the depth or where (weapons) are hidden,” added Misha.“It all depends on the depth or where (weapons) are hidden,” added Misha.
The Patron’s tiny size is perfect for maneuvering in small spaces. Patron is also very light, not enough to detonate an anti-tank mine, so he can move safely through minefields
“[Patron] can inspire anyone with his looks and eyes,” says Misha.
“In such a profession, everyone is afraid of something,” says Misha. “If you’re not afraid, then it’s time to change jobs, because you can cause trouble for other people.”
Despite the heavy workload and stress, Patron always knows how to find time to have fun.
“Patron just likes cheese,” Misha said. “He is very active, loves to run around happily with other dogs and then, of course, sleeps.”
Misha said that, in a brutally violent war brought by the Russian army, Patron “brings rays of sunshine, smiles and hope of victory and peace on earth” to the people. Ukraine.
The 2-year-old dog has become a phenomenon on social networks, a “hero” in the hearts of many Ukrainians. Patron currently has more than 193,000 followers on Instagram.
