| Accession Number | AWM2018.1146.1 |
|---|---|
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Heraldry |
| Physical description | Nylon webbing, Velcro |
| Location | Main Bld: Peacekeeping & Recent Conflicts Gallery |
| Conflict |
Afghanistan, 2001-2021 |
| Source credit to | This item has been digitised with funding provided by Commonwealth Government. |
Dog harness: Kuga, Special Operations Military Working Dog
Description
Black nylon lightweight dog harness with strips of velcro along the sides. Attached to the proper right side are two rectangular patches - 'KUGA' on a multicam ground, and a multicam subdued Australian flag. There is an elastic loop above the patches to carry a cyalume stick.
History / Summary
Harness worn by Special Operations Military Working Dog Kuga. Kuga was the first Australian dog to be awarded the Dickin Medal for animal bravery. During a Special Operations Task Group patrol near Khaz Uruzgan in Afghanistan in August 2011, Kuga, detecting an enemy presence ahead, swam across a river to expose an insurgent in an ambush position. In apprehending the enemy Kuga was shot five times and badly wounded. Despite a broken leg, Kuga swam back across the river when recalled by his handler, Sergeant J. Kuga was evacuated by helicopter for medical treatment. He died in Australia in 2012, likely as a result of stress and physical trauma associated with his wounds.