Dogs in warfare have a long history starting in ancient times. From 'war dogs' trained in combat to their use as scouts, sentries and trackers, their uses have been varied and some continue to exist in modern military usage. Retired working dogs are often adopted as pets or therapy dogs for various conditons such as PTSD, or serving the blind and physically handicapped.

 

The Battle Buddy Foundation

 

The Battle Buddy Foundation is dedicated to promoting a higher quality of LIFE, assisting with the LIBERTY of independent living, and aiding in the PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS for Disabled Veterans as they transition to civilian life.

 

http://www.tbbf.org/

 

US War Dog Association 

 

The United States War Dogs Association, Inc. is a nonprofit organization of Former and Current US Military Dog Handlers and supporting members committed to promoting the long history of the Military Service Dogs, establishing permanent War Dog Memorials, and educating the public about the invaluable service of these canines to our country.

http://www.uswardogs.org/

 

 

Health benefits for humans

 

The scientific evidence is mixed as to whether companionship of a dog can enhance human physical health and psychological wellbeing. Studies suggesting that there are benefits to physical health and psychological wellbeing have been criticised for being poorly controlled, and finding that "the health of elderly people is related to their health habits and social supports but not to their ownership of, or attachment to, a companion animal." Earlier studies have shown that people who keep pet dogs or cats exhibit better mental and physical health than those who do not, making fewer visits to the doctor and being less likely to be on medication than non-guardians.

 

Dog Intelligence

 

The domestic dog has a predisposition to exhibit a social intelligence that is uncommon in the animal world. Dogs are capable of learning in a number of ways, such as through simple reinforcement (e.g., classical or operant conditioning) and by observation.  The Border Collie is considered to be one of the most intelligent breeds.

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dog

 

 

PETS FOR PATRIOTS, Inc. 

 

We see a future where no animal is homelessPets for Patriots’ vision is to end animal homelessness by supporting the permanent placement of adult dogs and cats with every available, able and willing military family in the United States.

 

What we value

 

Connecting people and pet in mutual friendship and companionship. We hold dear the ability to liberate adult shelter animals from near certain death and the chance to show gratitude to our country’s patriots by providing them with a new best friend.

 

http://www.petsforpatriots.org