VIDEO: Help Save Military Dogs

It makes sense that man’s best friend would be man’s best companion in times of war. Dogs are loyal and eager to please and offer endless love and comfort.

“The United States has nearly 3,000 military working dogs, with about 600 overseas serving alongside soldiers. Currently they’re classified as “equipment,” which can prevent them from returning home with those they protect,” CNN reported.

If a dog retires while abroad, the dog is most often left behind because of the high cost of travel.

“A bill that was passed in the House and awaiting a vote in the Senate would change the classification and policy. Supporters of the legislation believe the dogs deserve care at home for their contributions to the country.”

How can you help?

You can adopt a retired military dog. You can apply by following this link.

From the military:

MWD Q&A

Q: How do military working dogs become part of the Department of Defense adoption program?
A: The dogs that are typically adopted are dogs that did not pass the rigorous certification process to become a MWD and were not selected by civilian law enforcement agencies for duty or are older dogs who have been retired from military duty.

Q: How long is the wait to adopt a retired MWD?
A: The current wait to adopt a retired MWD is 12-18 months.

Q: What does the adoption process consist of?
A: The adoption process begins with an application that can be found at
[email protected].

Q: What’s the cost of adopting?
A: The dogs are free to adopt, but the adopter will have to pay for transportation to and from Lackland Air Force Base.

Q: If the dogs are not adopted, are they euthanized?
A: The DoD never euthanizes dogs because a suitable home cannot be found.
For more information, call John Engstrom at 671-3402 or 1-800-531-1066.

Go to Save A Vet for more information about what you can do to help.