How did Patron the dog become a favorite of the whole world

Ukrainian mine-sniffing dog Patron is probably the most famous dog in Ukraine now. Thanks to his skills, temper, and at the same time, cute look, he became a favorite of the whole world.

He is a mascot of the State Emergency Service, a Superhero for children, and a symbol of Ukraine’s resistance for millions of people. 

Here are some facts about the most popular super dog in Ukraine.

Patron is a Ukrainian mine-sniffing dog that helps State Emergency Service workers in the Chernihiv region to neutralize explosives. For three months of the war, he has become a symbol of Ukraine’s resistance against Russia.

Patron’s name means “ammo” in English. He is a two-and-a-half-year-old Jack Russell terrier and never meant to become a service dog.

Patron’s owner Mykhailo Iliev bought the dog as a pet for his son and hoped he could be a show dog. But at an early age, Mykhailo began to take Patron to work, where the dog was taught to be a professional landmine finder.

As soon as the story about Patron appeared in the media for the first time, it went viral, and Patron became the most famous dog in Ukraine. 

He has more than 260,000 followers on Instagram and has got a medal from the Ukrainian President.

Despite his popularity, Patron didn’t get a star fever and behaves like an ordinary dog: sleeps at the important briefing and barks at Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. 

Patron also became a subject of memes…

Patron is not only a mascot of the State Emergency Service, but also a National hero for millions of people, especially children.They praise Patron in their paintings and ask parents to get a pet. For children, it is vitally important to have such a positive character during the dark times of the war. 

Text: Oksana Dumska
Design: Anastasia Chervinska