SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany — A military working dog’s most critical weapon system doesn't rely on ammunition — it relies on a healthy bite.
For these four-legged defenders, a toothache is more than a painful distraction; it can also shut down their vital sense of smell and sideline them from the mission.
To keep them mission-ready, U.S. Army veterinarians and U.S. Air Force dental technicians at Spangdahlem Air Base are working side-by-side to ensure the 52nd Security Forces Squadron’s canine teeth stay sharp and in the fight.
The squadron’s dogs assist in detecting explosives and support law enforcement operations across the installation. Their ability to perform demanding tasks depends on consistent medical care that keeps them healthy, capable and ready to respond.
“Without preventative dental care, bacteria can build up beneath the gums, leading to tooth decay, gingivitis and other oral disease,” said U.S. Army Capt. Javier Pino, a veterinarian with the Veterinary Readiness Activity Rheinland-Pfalz at the Spangdahlem Veterinary Treatment Facility. “Routine exams help us identify those issues before they become serious.”
To maintain readiness, veterinary personnel perform comprehensive physical examinations and annual dental procedures. During these cleanings, teams place the dog under anesthesia to conduct a thorough oral exam. Dental X-rays identify problems below the gumline, while IV fluids, airway support and continuous monitoring keep the animal safe.
Many oral diseases develop gradually without obvious signs. Left unchecked, they can degrade a dog's primary operational capability. “If they have really bad dental disease, it could affect their sense of smell,” Pino said. “Making sure their teeth are healthy helps keep them ready for work.” For patrol-certified dogs, maintaining a strong bite is just as critical as olfactory health.
“(While) our main mission here is explosive detection,” said U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Gabrielle Monteleone, 52nd Security Forces Squadron military working dog handler. “(These dogs) help apprehend suspects when the situation requires it.”
Ultimately, these joint dental operations represent something much larger than routine veterinary care, clinic officials said. Every examination, X-ray and cleaning preserves one of the 52nd Fighter Wing’s most valuable force protection assets, ensuring Saber Nation's working dogs remain ready to detect threats and protect the installation.