Backlash over death of Prince William’s dogs

The British Ministry of Defence has confirmed that two dogs were put down only days after Prince William and Kate left Anglesey.

Brus, a Belgian shepherd, and Blade, a German shepherd, were part of a group of patrol dogs providing extra security for William during his time in the RAF. They were reportedly put down because of “behaviour issues” and were at the end of their working lives.

The news was followed by an outcry from animal protection groups, including The Dogs Trust charity, who said dogs were not “kit that can be decommissioned”.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence released a statement, stating, “The department’s policy is to re-home all military working dogs at the end of their service life wherever practicable. Regrettably, however, there are occasions when they have to be put down.”

“This action is only ever taken as a last resort. Unfortunately, in this case, the dogs were unsuitable for re-homing or alternative duties and so sadly, for the animal’s welfare, they had to be put down.”