Russian Lawmaker Proposes Using Stray Dogs for Mine Clearance in War Zones

From abandoned streets to the front lines? One politician’s bold—and controversial—plan to turn stray dogs into wartime lifesavers. But will it work?

, and Administrator

2025 November 23 . 3:21 AM

1 min read

In the middle of the image there is a dog. Behind the dog there are some boxes. Behind the boxes... — In the middle of the image there is a dog. Behind the dog there are some boxes. Behind the boxes two persons are standing and holding weapons. Behind them there is wall.

Russian Lawmaker Proposes Using Stray Dogs for Mine Clearance in War Zones

A regional lawmaker in Russia has put forward an unusual plan to address two pressing issues at once. Boris Melnichenko, a member of the Krasnoyarsk Krai Legislative Assembly, suggested sending stray animals to mine-clearing operations in combat zones. His proposal came during debates on a controversial bill regulating stray animal populations, including euthanasia measures.

Melnichenko introduced the plan during the second reading of a bill focused on managing stray animals. The legislation, which includes provisions for euthanasia in specific cases, was later approved by lawmakers.

The Krasnoyarsk Krai assembly passed the stray animal regulation bill in its second reading. Melnichenko’s suggestion to repurpose stray animals for mine clearance remains a separate proposal, not yet formalised into law. If implemented, the plan could reshape how the region handles both stray populations and military logistics.