ANDREW YATES/AFP/Getty Images, RAFTwo guard dogs that used to be by Prince William's side during his active duty were put down recently, the BBC reports.
The Ministry of Defense has defended its decision, however, claiming that the dogs were not able to be domesticated following their time with the Duke of Cambridge. A Belgian shepherd named Brus and a German shepherd named Blade were the two dogs that were laid to rest.
After nearly four years of active duty with the Duke, the Ministry claims that Brus was "at the end of his working life," while Blade had "behavioral issues."
The canines were said to have belonged to the unit that provided extra security at RAF Valley when Prince William was there. The Dogs Trust charity also weighed in with their thoughts on the matter. They said that the dogs were not fit to be "decommissioned," implying that bringing them into a domestic home would be nearly impossible.
Prince William, who started his training at RAF Valley in January 2009, finished his military duties on Sept. 10 of this year in an effort to focus on his royal obligations.
Just days later, the two dogs were put down.
The Ministry of Defense spokesperson has said that the incident's timing is "entirely coincidental."
He also added that Blade "had a record of veterinary issues" which prevented him from being able to be put on other assignments.
"The department's policy is to rehome all military working dogs at the end of their service life wherever practicable," he added.
"Regrettably, however, there are occasions when they have to be put down. This action is only ever taken as a last resort."
The Dogs Trust released the following statement regarding the Ministry's ultimate decision—and it's telling in and of itself.
"Although it is impossible for Dogs Trust to speculate about the decisions made about Brus and Blade, we would have hoped that the loyalty the dogs had shown their handlers during their working life was reciprocated at the time of their retirement."
RIP.