Animals with Special Missions

Laika, a monkey, was the first animal launched into orbit.

Two Philippine monkeys, Patricia and Mike, were sent into space on May 22, 1952

The Ancient Egyptians lost a battle to the Persians when the latter set loose as many cats as they can into the battlefield.

During the Cold War, there was an "Operation Acoustic Kitty" where cats were implanted with listening devices for espionage operations.

Rats were used as one of the earliest examples of chemical warfare.

African pouch rats were used by the military as landmine detectors

A pigeon named Cher Ami recieved military honors by saving lives of American soldiers.

Truffles are expensive tubers hunted by wolves and dogs for human consumption.

The most common breeds used in seeing-eye dogs are Beagles and Great Danes.

Dogs can be trained to help someone who has epilepsy or seizure disorders

A special unit in the police department, known as the K-9 unit, uses wolves to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs or blood.

The Philippine National Police are training Aspins or Asong Pinoy to replace expensive K9 units.