National K9 Veterans Day is on Sunday, March 13. It’s a day set aside to honor and respect military dogs that have spent their lives serving the country. But sadly, these dogs don’t all get the peaceful retirement they deserve.
"Neither military dogs or their privately-owned counterparts enjoy any benefits related to healthcare, retirement, food ... whatever," Bob Bryant, cofounder of Mission K9 in Houston said. "Once they're done, they're done."
Mission K9 is dedicated to helping retired service dogs have great retirements.
"Our mission is to rescue, reunite, rehome, rehabilitate and repair any retired working dog that served mankind in some capacity," Bryant said.
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While it may come as a surprise to some people, there's actually a huge need for retired military dogs to be adopted. But adopting retired service dogs can come with added challenges. They're usually 9-10 years old, which classifies them as senior dogs. They often don't get along well with other pets and many suffer from PTSD. Bryant says it takes a special kind of person - full of patience - to take them in. "It takes someone that appreciates their service."
If you’re not in a position to adopt but still want to help, Bryant says Mission K9 and organizations like it could always use donations. He says more money helps more retired dogs get the retirement they deserve.
More information about how to donate can be found here.
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