Soldiers Seek Safe Return for Military Rescued Puppies
U.S. soldiers are working hard to ensure that a group of military working dogs makes it safely back to the United States.
In late December, a group of American soldiers stationed in the Middle East heard desperate cries.
Dogface and his fellow soldiers discovered two drowned puppies in an oil pit designed for vehicle maintenance.
Initially, the soldiers had spotted five puppies a few weeks prior. “It was cold and rainy, so they were wandering around looking for food,” noted a U.S. Navy veteran named Smith.
The military has not disclosed the names or locations of the soldiers involved.
“We offered them milk and bits of tuna, but they were just too shy to come close,” one soldier mentioned. However, following the rescue from the oil pit, everything shifted.
The Canaan mix puppies are now around five months old and continue to roam the military base. An American charity is working to bring them to the United States for their safety.
Robert Miceli, a co-founder of the organization, expressed concerns about the situation, stating, “As conditions change daily and with flight cancellations occurring worldwide, each rescue is becoming more prolonged and expensive.” The organization, known as Footprints of War, is dedicated to reuniting military personnel with animals they saved during their service.
They are striving to transport a total of 30 animals, primarily rescued from the Middle East, to the United States. The cost for each transportation could reach up to $10,000.
Miceli estimates it might take around two months for the puppies to arrive in the U.S., especially given that five flights scheduled have already been canceled due to the ongoing crisis in Iran.
“Our military risks their lives for our nation, so we are committed to making these rescues happen,” he affirmed.
Sergeant Lee, one of the soldiers who participated in the rescue effort, remarked, “It would be such a relief if the puppies get to America safely.”
She is eager to return home after her tour, especially with Akira, one of the puppies she hopes to adopt. “I just want to pamper him and let him live as a proper pup instead of just surviving,” she added.
