Is Your Dog a Hero?

By Anna Kelly

Do you dog lovers out there ever see your dog as a hero?

I cringe whenever I hear stories of dog abuse and neglect. Dogs have done so much for humanity. Throughout history there have been dog heroes. No matter what shape, size, or breed, dogs to this day continue to work in search and rescue, helping the blind and disabled, and helping the police force and the military. Today, dogs play an even more critical role in the fight against terrorism.

Although breeds do not guarantee a dog hero status, all dog breeds are capable of producing genuine heroes. Search and rescue dogs come in all different breeds and each have their own unique set of skills that they bring to their jobs. Dogs have served loyally alongside firefighters, police officers, and the brave service men and women of our armed forces. Who can forget following the attacks on 9/11 about the search and rescue dogs, unsung heroes, who led the rescue and recovery teams and have become famous for their efforts and dedication to their mission?

All kinds of awards have been given to dogs to celebrate their heroism and saving prowess. During the Vietnam War, 4,000 dogs were recruited to assist and protect. The ability of dogs to detect bombs has been proven since World War I. Since America first used combat canines in World War I, more than 30,000 dogs have done everything for the military from carrying messages and first-aid supplies to the front, to searching for land mines and tunnels, detecting booby traps and trip wires all but invisible to two-footed soldiers. Military dogs have alerted troops to imminent ambushes, protecting camps, and tracking and capturing the enemy. Now, with their super-sensitive noses, dogs are a strong defense in the global war on terrorism.

From training school to the first day on the job working with human partners on rescue teams, these tireless dogs refuse to rest until they have led the last stranded victim to safety. All breeds can be receptive to training, and most dogs love to work and to please their owner/handler. When allowed to use all their natural capabilities and their problem-solving skills, results are often astonishing. Whether the dog's job is herding sheep, guarding livestock, or sniffing out bombs and drugs at the airport, the working dog is eager to please and achieve results.

Besides the working dogs who serve mankind, there are also those dog heroes one reads about pretty regularly on the news who rescued a family from a fire or from certain death. Their self-sacrifice, loyalty, and valor always amazes.

Anna M. Kelly http://www.dogworldonline.blogspot.com