Would You Rescue a Handicapped Hero - A War Dog?

Did you know that America has an almostsomeone's former husband or wife, alone and
unknown force of heroes who risk the mostsuffering through an illness, praying for a chance
dangerous missions, scouting, searching forto be needed again.
explosives, helping to save wounded soldiers andIn every age group, with every infirmity, there
other clandestine and super dangerous activities?remains in the heart of the afflicted a desire to
These heroes have for years been unsung and atlove and be loved. I would sometimes stop and
one time were abandoned or worse at the endchat for a moment or two with such a patient on
of their tour...with nary a thanks or even a ridetheir way to their next medical procedure or
home.grabbing a few moments of freedom during a
America's War Dogs have saved the lives ofwheel chair ride.
countless Americans and are only recently beingAnxious to interact they would recount stories of
recognized and given a 2nd chance at life intheir youth, times they spent fishing, with family,
appreciation for their heroic deeds.being needed.
Some are injured and handicapped physically orThe very same analogy applies to handicapped
perhaps are simply longing for a home...whichdogs. Whether born with a deformity, injured in
bears fruit to the real question of today.an accident or during war, abused or recovering
Would You Save the Life of a Handicapped Hero?from a medical condition, these dogs yearn to
If we examine our attitude toward dogs withlove and be loved. Having endured so much to
handicaps, (they may be war dogs or dogs fromsurvive they want nothing more than to show
your local neighborhood or shelter) perhaps wetheir appreciation, their love, and to share the
can learn a bit about ourselves in the process.wisdom that only a soul that has endured much is
IF YOU ALREADY HAVE A DOG this is still worthcapable of.
reading as it is really about the meaning and valueWar dogs have endured the most extreme of
of all life.dangers and while most are healthy and sound
Generally, when people decide to adopt or rescuethey have never had a chance at a happy home
a dog, the first thought that comes to mind islife.
that cute puppy they saw in a pet store( badWhen you adopt a handicapped dog or a war dog
choice) shelter, rescue, or happily playing in theyou will become a student. A student of life, a
their neighbor's front yard.student of love, a student of compassion, and
There is no doubt that a healthy young puppyyou will have a teacher who will be your most
can be a wonderful addition to any household. Andjoy-filled companion in life's adventures. And you
a lively, already house trained, ready to go adultwill be adopting a hero, handicapped physically or
pooch can be just the perfect addition for a busyone that just needs and deserves a loving home.
household looking for a 'ready to go' companion.If you are ready to adopt a handicapped dog in
Perfect puppy, perfect adult dog, what can beher journey of life you must be prepared to give
better than that? The answer may surprise youher your time and necessary resources such as a
but the most rewarding experience that you everdoggy wheelchair.
have may be the time your life is blessed by theIn return, you will be repaid by an experience that
company of a handicapped dog.will ingrain upon your heart and soul a perspective
I have had the opportunity to spend untold hoursthat will stay with you for the remainder of your
in hospitals for patients of the human variety. I'velife. Lucky dog, lucky you.:)
seen children stricken with cancer, elderly folksWar dog or local handicapped buddy who needs a
propped up in bed during their final illness,2nd chance at life.. they are all heroes and pals.