Critter Corner: Memorial Day is for Veterans of all Sorts

Republican or Democrat, dog lover or cat – it does not matter.This Memorial Day take a moment to help four legged veterans overseas, now classified as equipment, to come home.

Despite the odds, a bill was passed in the House to allow military personal, veterans and their families, to streamline the adoption of military dogs. This bill is now in the Senate and needs your signature. Let them know that these steady and loyal animals are wanted here back in the states. They have served well and have bonded to their handlers or groups- and their handlers to them.

This is a national issue, one that a single veteran can not solve, no matter how attached they are to their dog. For more information go to the ASPCA petition- just enter your zip code for the right contact to petition, or read Kevin Hanrahan's blog.

According to Hanrahan, "The act is meant to enhance this care and streamline their adoption and properly care for them upon retirement" He is a dog lover and a solider balancing the pen and the sword.

An excerpt from the ASPCA petition and explanation of the bill reads as follows "This bill reclassifies military working dogs as "canine members of the armed forces" instead of "equipment," and ensures that responsibility for the health and well-being of the dogs continues after their retirement from service. It has three major provisions: The bill standardizes practices for adopting retired MWDs, directs the Department of Defense to designate a nonprofit entity to establish a system of veterinary care for retired MWDs, and establishes a formal means of recognition for courageous and meritorious dogs. Importantly, no additional federal funds will be used to provide the dogs' veterinary care."

Make your voice from Mayfield and the Hillcrest area heard in Washington, and felt overseas. Make it possible for these valiant veterans to come home to a loving welcome. Maybe no one will sing "When Fido comes marching home again hurrah," but like call of the silent dog whistle these canines will know they are valuable members – and not outdated equipment. 

Interested? Read more about Marc and Anax.