Did you know that America has an almost unknown force of heroes who risk the most dangerous missions, scouting, searching for explosives, helping to save wounded soldiers and other clandestine and super dangerous activities?
These heroes have for years been unsung and at one time were abandoned or worse at the end of their tour…with nary a thanks or even a ride home.
America’s War Dogs have saved the lives of countless Americans and are only recently being recognized and given a 2nd chance at life in appreciation for their heroic deeds.
Some are injured and handicapped physically or perhaps are simply longing for a home…which bears fruit to the real question of today.
Would You Save the Life of a Handicapped Hero?
If we examine our attitude toward dogs with handicaps, (they may be war dogs or dogs from your local neighborhood or shelter) perhaps we can learn a bit about ourselves in the process.
IF YOU ALREADY HAVE A DOG this is still worth reading as it is really about the meaning and value of all life.
Generally, when people decide to adopt or rescue a dog, the first thought that comes to mind is that cute puppy they saw in a pet store( bad choice) shelter, rescue, or happily playing in the their neighbor’s front yard.
There is no doubt that a healthy young puppy can be a wonderful addition to any household. And a lively, already house trained, ready to go adult pooch can be just the perfect addition for a busy household looking for a ‘ready to go’ companion.
Perfect puppy, perfect adult dog, what can be better than that? The answer may surprise you but the most rewarding experience that you ever have may be the time your life is blessed by the company of a handicapped dog.
I have had the opportunity to spend untold hours in hospitals for patients of the human variety. I’ve seen children stricken with cancer, elderly folks propped up in bed during their final illness, someone’s former husband or wife, alone and suffering through an illness, praying for a chance to be needed again.
In every age group, with every infirmity, there remains in the heart of the afflicted a desire to love and be loved. I would sometimes stop and chat for a moment or two with such a patient on their way to their next medical procedure or grabbing a few moments of freedom during a wheel chair ride.
Anxious to interact they would recount stories of their youth, times they spent fishing, with family, being needed.
The very same analogy applies to handicapped dogs. Whether born with a deformity, injured in an accident or during war, abused or recovering from a medical condition, these dogs yearn to love and be loved. Having endured so much to survive they want nothing more than to show their appreciation, their love, and to share the wisdom that only a soul that has endured much is capable of.
War dogs have endured the most extreme of dangers and while most are healthy and sound they have never had a chance at a happy home life.
When you adopt a handicapped dog or a war dog you will become a student. A student of life, a student of love, a student of compassion, and you will have a teacher who will be your most joy-filled companion in life’s adventures. And you will be adopting a hero, handicapped physically or one that just needs and deserves a loving home.
If you are ready to adopt a handicapped dog in her journey of life you must be prepared to give her your time and necessary resources such as a doggy wheelchair.
In return, you will be repaid by an experience that will ingrain upon your heart and soul a perspective that will stay with you for the remainder of your life. Lucky dog, lucky you.:)
War dog or local handicapped buddy who needs a 2nd chance at life.. they are all heroes and pals.
If you are ready to save a wonderful life:
Start your search for a handicapped dog now by visiting
http://www.petswithdisabilities.org
For more information about America’s War Dogs visit the U.S. Dept of Defense website at: [http://tinyurl.com/2uo76or]