288 military dogs put down by MoD

Some 288 military dogs have been put down by the Ministry of Defence in the past three years.

The figures emerged after it was revealed that two guard dogs used to protect the Duke of Cambridge were euthanised within days of him leaving his military base.

According to the Sun, 288 dogs were put down by the MoD from January 2010 to June this year.

Among those humanely killed, 81 were because of age, 61 due to osteoarthritis and 33 were related to dangerous temperament.

An MoD spokesman said: "Our animals play an invaluable role on military operations in Afghanistan and elsewhere and are much loved by the troops.

"Most animals are re-homed. Regrettably, due to the challenging nature of their work, some of our dogs get injured or contract illnesses and need to be put down. These decisions are taken only as a last resort following veterinary advice."

The Sun reported that Bruce, a Belgian Shepherd, and Blade, a German Shepherd, were put down after William completed his final shift as a search and rescue pilot at RAF Valley on Anglesey.