Military working dogs are trained to be tough and withstand stressful environments. They’re essential in the modern battlefield and are considered to be force multipliers. When these dogs retire from service, the lucky ones end up getting adopted by their handlers.
The dog handlers are usually given the first choice to adopt the dogs they are paired with. The handlers often form a close bond with the dogs and are more inclined to adopt them. The dogs also bond with their handlers, which is why it’s difficult for them to bond and trust another human.
Unfortunately, not all dog handlers choose to adopt retired dogs. These dogs will remain the property of the United States Military and are kept in a facility where they await euthanasia. Most of these dogs are healthy and active.
Thankfully, a Navy Seal veteran named Mike Ritland learned about this. He was told that the dogs will be euthanized if they aren’t adopted. For Mike, the decision was a no-brainer. He decided to adopt all the retired military working dogs that weren’t adopted by their handlers.
Eventually, Mike formed a dog rescue organization called Warrior Dog Foundation. The organization aims to rescue retired military working dogs who weren’t adopted by their handlers. They want to give these dogs a second chance. Mike believes that these dogs still have a place in society.
Military working dogs served their country faithfully and all of them deserve a happy retirement with loving families. Ever since Mike started Warrior Dog Foundation, he was able to find new forever homes for hundreds of retired military working dogs.
Many of the dogs are experiencing something similar to PTSD. Mike’s goal is to rehabilitate these dogs and get them ready to be reintroduced into society and find their families. He wants every dog he rescues to enjoy the rest of their days in peace. Here’s a video featuring Mike’s work and how he got started rescuing retired military working dogs.
Video Source Inside Edition via YouTube
