Page 9 - Chiron Autumn 2017

Defence Animal Training Regiment Open Day 24th June 2017
After several days of frantic organisation, planning and traditional tent building another Open Day at the Defence Animal Training Regiment (DATR) arrived.
This was going to be a different Open Day, unlike previous years the day’s events were centralised on the main show eld at the entrance to the DATR. Equine Training Squadron (ETS) and Veterinary Training Squadron (VTS) would open their doors for visitors to explore, but Canine Training Squadron (CTS) would give exciting Military Working Dog (MWD) demonstrations in the arena on the main eld. This did not dampen the DATR Open Day experience, in fact returning visitors were relieved that the dreaded ‘Dog School Hill’, for this year at least, was off the program.
The combination of excellent weather and the best open day program to date saw a record number of visitors through the DATR gates. Some of the scheduled events included duck herding and performances by the Band of the Royal Engineers. The highlight of the day’s events was undoubtedly the inspiring Musical Ride performed by Household Calvary Mounted Regiment. Crowds watched in awe as the energetic display of mounted musicians moved at high speed around the arena; demonstrating both their musical talent and skill in saddle. Quite the feat attempting to do both at the same time!
The main arena proved a popular location for visitors but the experience did not stop there. For those wishing to explore, both ETS and VTS were open and running their own attractions throughout the day. At ETS visitors were able to enjoy the beautiful stable yard and meet its resident horses who were quite happy to be receiving so much attention. The Squadron’s Forge also opened to visitors for a unique opportunity to observe the DATR skilled Army School of Farriery at work.
Not to be out done, VTS ran its popular treasure hunt, ‘Test Your Knowledge’ horse and dog breed board and ‘Dress like a Vet’ fun dress-up; a stall which proved to be popular with adults and children alike. For those not wishing to take part in activities the May eld Alpaca Farm (popular at the 2015 Open Day) brought some of their unusual animals including meerkats, a porcupine and of course several alpacas for visitors to meet.
CTS Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers impressed the crowds at the
Cruachan the Shetland Pony Mascot of the Royal Regiment of Scotts and Domhnall the Irish Wolfhound Mascot of the Irish Guard with handlers
Visitors enjoying Equine Training Squadron stable yard
May eld Alpaca Farm – Alpaca’s enjoying the sun
main arena by demonstrated their Military Working Dog capability and handling skills. Crowds were especially entertained by their unique ‘cops and robbers’ bitework demonstration which allowed visitors to appreciate the agility and power MWD’s possess.
For the rst time at an DATR Open Day event visitors could meet Cruachan the Shetland pony mascot of the Royal Regiment of Scots and the almost
The Equine Training Squadron Forge. Army farrier’s demonstrating their farriery skills to visitors
Veterinary Training Squadron Treasure hunt
Shetland pony-sized Domhnall the Irish Wolfhound mascot of the Irish Guards. A little reminder that the DATR is responsible for the health and care of mascots through out the Ministry of Defence and that its mascots come in all shapes and sizes!
At the days end visitors left the DATR saying it was by far the best Open Day yet. With Open Day expectations taken to a new level will the DATR ever manage to top this Open Day event?
Star attraction Military Musical Ride performed by Household Calvary Mounted Regiment
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