We may not often see them but we've long been aware that both police and military operations can involve specially-trained animals.
While it's hard not to admire the discipline of service animals when we see them, it's also easy to forget just how many are carrying out official government duties throughout the world.
Unfortunately, it seems that it's even easier to forget about these animals after they've fulfilled their duties and been retired. Between the strain they've developed on the job and the perception potential owners have when it comes to what they'll be able to do, this can put animals in a position that's both difficult for them and expensive for their carers.
That problem is at the heart of some new legislation in Poland and if it passes, life after duty should get easier for both animals with government jobs and those who look after them.