O/T - Shameless Plug

[BustopherJones]

They give us unconditional love and undying loyalty. They protect us, amuse us, bond with us, rescue us, and when necessary give their lives for us. Dogs play special roles in life, and make our lives more whole. Service dogs improve and preserve our lives. And there are those special K9’s that serve alongside our soldiers, dogs who have given, and will give, their lives to save their human fellow soldiers.

 

Several hundred military dogs serve in Iraq and Afghanistan, manning (or perhaps “dogging” is a better term) checkpoints, sniffing for bombs, and engaging in “search and rescue” missions in collapsed buildings. Like their human counterparts, they get killed and wounded. But because dogs are considered equipment, the military doesn't provide things like rope toys, dog beds, or treats to make their lives more enjoyable. Some of the things these brave “soldiers” lack are dog biscuits, dog treats, jerky treats, dog shampoo, dog conditioner, dog brushes, chew ropes, chew toys, baby wipes, bones, tennis balls, Kongs, eye/ear wipes for dogs, 'Working Dog' salves for paws and noses, moist towelettes to wipe paws, dog beds or pillows, and dog boots.

 

Among the things I have learned in the time that I have had the pleasure of participating on this board is that our members are kind and generous toward all dogs. There is an opportunity to make a contribution to our K9 troops who are serving and protecting their human counterparts in the Middle East.

 

One effort is being run by Michael Kaplan. “Bruno Packs” is a donation program that provides snacks, treats, toys, and goods to K9 units abroad because they have limited access to everyday items. Through Bruno Packs, just a little gesture can help support to our troops. K-9 units' conditions vary, but they welcome all types of packages, whether it be snacks, dog toys, or a simple letter, it does brighten their days to hear from home. ”Bruno Packs” sends care packages to K9 units in a variety of regions. Their goal is to keep a running list of requests on their website so that you can see what our troops would love to have. You can simply donate a bag of treats or a dog brush, or whatever you could provide, and they will pack and ship to these brave teams abroad. They will guarantee that your letter will be included (if you wish), as they want to ensure that your kindness is known by the handlers and dogs. Their website can be found at http://thehousehound.net/_wsn/page4.html.

 

Another organization providing aid is the United States War Dogs Association. Their “Operation Military Care K-9” accepts financial contributions that are used in making up special Care packages for our K9 troops, as well as accepts contributions of individual items. You can visit their website at http://uswardogs.org/id40.html.

 

While our own beloved dogs enjoy our way of life with their human masters, their cousins are in the field to “Detect, Deter, and Safeguard”. Any help that you can provide to these dogs who, along with our brave and dedicated troops, are also protecting our freedom will be most appreciated.

[Dixie_Girl]

Thank you Bustopher! I will send one right away! How can I support our troops and leave out the 4-legged ones? What a great way to help out. Thanks again for the heads up!

[Kassies mom]

Just bumping this up....it's too important not to. Thanks for the link.

[BustopherJones]

Sidebar: Just a reminder, as we approach Memorial Day, that it is appropriate to remember all of God's creatures, great and small, who have served our nation, and those who have given their lives for our freedom, as well as to honor those who serve today.