{
  "id": 4305378,
  "title": "Getting the dogs, horses ready for Merdeka Day parade [WATCH]",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/29/getting-the-dogs-horses-ready-for-merdeka-day-parade-watch",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-29T23:20:21.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/08/1521531/getting-dogs-horses-ready-merdeka-day-parade-watch"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In preparation for the Merdeka Day parade, twenty-five military dogs and twenty-five horses from the armed forces are undergoing rigorous training. The Military Dog Wing, also known as the Wolf Wing, and the Ceremonial Cavalry Squadron's horse contingent are set to participate alongside their human counterparts. The handlers have been working diligently for about a month, ensuring the animals are healthy and ready to perform. Daily health checks and temperature monitoring under veterinary supervision are part of the rigorous preparation process. The handlers emphasize the importance of precise commands and strict control during the parade to prevent disruptions caused by the animals' varying temperaments. Hot weather and haze have posed challenges, so the unit takes measures to keep the dogs hydrated and healthy. For many handlers, this is their first parade, while others have taken part in previous celebrations. The horses have also undergone weeks of preparation to familiarize themselves with the equipment, route, and sounds they will encounter during the parade. The handlers describe the experience as a source of pride, showcasing the unit's assets to the public and sparking interest in the armed forces.",
  "summary": "PUTRAJAYA: With tails wagging and hooves trotting, the animal contingent taking part in the National Day parade have been put through intensive training and acclimatisation.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "New Straits Times",
        "title": "Merdeka Day parade to proceed if clear skies remain",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/29/merdeka-day-parade-to-proceed-if-clear-skies-remain",
        "published": "2026-08-29T03:46:16.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}