Today is Veterans Day in the United States and a day to honor and thank our veterans - human and K9 soldiers.    This post contains an affiliate link which simply means if you click on it and order the film, if it's a qualifying order, we will receive a minimal commission *at no extra cost to you.*  A special event is the advance screenings today of the new HBO film War Dog: A Soldier's Best Friend that according to the film's promo is  "...a deeply personal documentary that highlights the intimate relationship between soldiers and their K9s who serve together as human/animal teams in combat." Here is a sneak peak:     The film premiered on Monday, November 13, so check your local listings. I know I am eager to watch this special documentary! But, I have a feeling we will all need a box of tissues near by. To purchase or rent to view visit our Amazon affiliate link HERE. For more information and news about our U.S. War Dogs and their handle...

According to the United States Army, "In January 1942, members of the American Kennel Club and other dog lovers formed a civilian organization called Dogs for Defense. They intended to train dogs to perform sentry duty for the army along the coast of the United States. Aware of this effort, Lieutenant Colonel Clifford C. Smith, chief of the Plant Protection Branch, Inspection Division, Quartermaster Corps, met with his commander, Major General Edmund B. Gregory, and suggested that the Army use the sentry dogs at supply depots. Gregory gave his approval to an experimental program, and on March 13, 1942, Under Secretary of War Robert P. Patterson approved Gregory's application and created the K-9 Corps." Did You Know?   Siberian Huskies and their cousin the Malamutes, were among the working breeds who served as war dogs during World War II?  * The War Dog Ambassador was a Siberian Husky named "Buck?"  * ...

This month's issue of National Geographic , features a U.S. War Dog - hero  "Layka" - and her touching story of being a K9 soldier "...shot four times at point blank range..." while on duty in Afghanistan, and how she saved the life of  her handler, Staff Sgt. Julian McDonald,  and their team. it also tells of how Staff Sgt. McDonald fought to adopt Layka and bring home - his friend, his partner, his protector. Gibson and Harley love this War Dog issue of Nat Geo. Lots of info.  Don't miss viewing the touching video of Layka's story in this month's issue of National Geographic as told by her handler, Staff Sgt. McDonald here: The Dogs of War - Video: A Soldiers Best Friend There is also a very touching video featuring veterans of the Vietnam War talking about their K9 partners. The sad part, 4,000 dogs were sent over, and only about 200 made it back home during that time. Thankfully, in 2000, "Robby's Law" w...

  Today is Veterans Day. Please take a moment on this 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour to reflect upon all of our veterans, past and present, two-legged and four-legged, who bravely defend our country and our rights. If you see a veteran, say "Thank You" for their service. Since this is a canine blog, we'll be focusing on the four-legged veterans and their dedication and service. Why not stop by your local shelter and make a donation of food, treats, goods, or money in the name of a K9 soldier? My father, who was a TSGT and served two tours during World War II, the first with the "Big Red One" - the U.S. Army's First Division, and then later on with the Rainbow Division, was an avid animal lover. I remember him talking about dogs and puppies they would befriend out in the field and on base. Here is a photo I share each Veterans Day of him with two of his canine pals on base. Did You Know? There are many working breeds of dog who serve ...