University of Arizona and Davis-Monthan Air Force Base took part in a series of “handshake” events between the University of Arizona and Davis‑Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson in February 2024, aimed at building relationships that could lead to joint research and training partnerships. Organizers highlighted how innovative veterinary and canine cognition research could positively affect military working dogs’ health and performance. This research employs advanced tools, such as eye-tracking goggles and touchscreen-based cognition tasks, to enhance understanding of how dogs think and behave, including in complex environments.

Delegates from the base and the university met on campus and during on‑base visits to observe training, exchange expertise, and identify possible areas for collaboration. The Arizona Simulation Technology and Education Center (ASTEC) participated by observing training exercises in point‑of‑injury care and combat rescue that intersect with the tasks military working dogs support. As part of this hands-on approach, researchers demonstrated dogs outfitted with goggles equipped with miniature lightweight cameras that track the animal’s field of vision and eye movements. Observers noted the close bonds handlers develop with their animals and discussed how those relationships factor into both performance and welfare. In fact, understanding the cognitive capabilities of these dogs can profoundly influence training techniques and handler support.

“Teamwork is crucial for success in both academic pursuits and on the battlefield,” said Nathan Hogan, a research associate with Research Development Services’ National Security Program, reflecting on the collaborative tone of the meetings. This sentiment aligns with a broader focus on canine welfare in military working dog programs, which generally includes preventive veterinary care and parasite control.

Evan MacLean, founder and director of the Arizona Canine Cognition Center, said the events gave researchers a clearer picture of the dogs’ operational roles. “Military working dogs are critical in so many applications, and we enjoyed learning about the spectrum of capabilities these dogs and their handlers provide,” he said. His remarks further highlight how these initiatives aim to leverage academic findings to better equip military teams.

University of Arizona faculty and staff framed the gatherings as early relationship‑building steps designed to translate into concrete projects. Maggie O’Haire, associate dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, described research priorities that bridge animal welfare and handler health: “We look forward to continuing to learn from one another and identifying ways to conduct strong science that enhances the human-animal bond as well as both human and canine wellbeing.” The integration of research and real-world application provides the potential for new studies and training, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.

Organizers said the handshake format is an informal way to surface needs and match them with the university’s expertise in veterinary medicine, health sciences, and related research areas. The University of Arizona’s Research office published a feature describing the collaboration and the initial meetings, which highlighted the potential for new studies and training programs that involve military working dog teams. Participants emphasized practical research directions discussed during the visits, including methods for measuring canine cognition and potential applications to training and care. ASTEC’s role in observing relevant rescue and trauma scenarios offered a bridge between laboratory research and field requirements.

The February 2024 delegation was an early step in an ongoing dialogue aimed at aligning University of Arizona research capabilities with operational challenges at Davis‑Monthan Air Force Base, including those related to military working dog teams. Officials view the collaboration as a way to improve animal welfare, strengthen handler support, and create educational and research opportunities across both institutions. What are the historical roles of military working dogs in the U.S. Armed Forces?

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Original reporting: view the original article.