Ukraine: Meet Patron, the hero dog honoured for sniffing out mines

For the third month in a row, Ukraine and Russia have been at war, yet a furry little war hero has emerged from Kyiv, saving hundreds of lives through his

For the third month in a row, Ukraine and Russia have been at war, yet a furry little war hero has emerged from Kyiv, saving hundreds of lives through his selfless dedication to his homeland.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday awarded a medal to the famous mine-sniffing dog Patron and his owner for their committed service since Russia’s invasion.

Patron took the spotlight during the award ceremony for the real-life heroic dog by happily barking and wagging his tail, causing the audience to laugh.

The hero dog first made the headlines after a video showed him hopping inside a van and sitting on the knee of an army soldier went viral on social media, sniffing around the rubble to ensure that the area was secure and free of mines.

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Patron used his acute nose and intelligence to smell out several mines and bombs during the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

It is believed that the canine has discovered more than 200 explosive devices and was taught pyrotechnic work by his owner, Mykhailo Iliev, a presidential adviser. Patron also works in mine security education.

Patron also helps children understand safety regulations and is well-liked by them, said Zelenskyy, while presenting the award in Kyiv, the capital. In fact, the dog is so popular that he has inspired various forms of fan art in his honor.

Patron received a state honour on Sunday and also visited Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who was in the country on a surprise visit.

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