WAR DOGS CASE STUDIES

Rex is Alright, Thanks to US War Dogs

Rex loves making new friends and flying the flag for MWDs during his retirement

Rex has spent his whole life in the military. Following his purchase from Belgium, Rex had a glittering career as a trainer dog at Lackland Air Force Base, before retiring in 2022, to live with Crystal and her family in Maryland.

Crystal explained: “My husband and I both come from military families and our son is in the Army. We had our eyes opened to the role of MWDs – and the fact that they receive no financial support from the military when they retire – we were determined to adopt one.

“After one failed adoption, we signed up to Lackland’s adoptions Facebook page, which is where we first saw Rex. He had these beautiful yellow eyes. I reached out and explained our situation and the team said we could take him home if we could collect him, which we absolutely did!”

As a seasoned professional, Rex had only known kennel life at Lackland, so when he moved into his retirement home, he had some new experiences to overcome. “It took him quite a while to get used to being in a house and having a soft bed to sleep on. He will come and lay in the bed with us now too, which shows how at home he feels.

“Rex had also never been around children, so my daughter, who was seven at the time, was a complete enigma. Of course, they are the best of friends now!”

Rex is right at home with his adopted family

Health Issues

When Crystal collected Rex, the kennel manager gave her and her husband the full rundown of Rex’s health. “Gerry, the kennel manager, explained that Rex was on regular medication for his hips and a couple of other things and that US War Dogs was on hand to support the dogs who have given their best years in military service. He said to enrol Rex in the Rx Program to help cover the cost of his medical needs.

“We applied to War Dogs a couple of months after Rex came home. We tell everyone about Rex and that MWDs don’t get the same military benefits that their human counterparts do. For some people, they are paying out of their pocket for complex health conditions that the dogs may have picked up as a result of their busy careers of service.

“Every month when we get Rex’s meds, we are so grateful.”

Always There

With Rex covered under US War Dogs’ Rx Program, Crystal and her family were able to enjoy spoiling him in his well-deserved retirement without worrying about the spiralling cost of medications. But when Rex started feeling under the weather, Crystal would learn the lengths that US War Dogs would go to, to take care our nation’s retired K-9 heroes.

 “Rex is incredibly food motivated”, Crystal explained, “He never has an issue with eating but one weekend, my husband noticed that Rex was off his food. As the weekend progressed, Rex started throwing up and became very lethargic. We tempted him with some of his favourite treats: Bacon and chicken, but nothing worked.”

Crystal decided to send an email to US War Dogs to say that Rex might well need a visit to the vet if he wasn’t better by Monday morning. “I got an email back from Chris – the president of US War Dogs – within the hour. He said to do whatever Rex needed and that War Dogs would cover the cost. It was such a huge relief.”



After an early morning call following a bad weekend, Crystal got Rex an appointment. The vet had never seen Rex before but he could tell that something was off. The vet took some x-rays which showed that Rex had gas bubbles in his stomach. “Because he is older, they wanted to give him IV fluids and meds. The staff told that usually, they see a complete 180 after a couple of hours on the IV, but it wasn’t taking effect.”

The vets put Rex on a drip to try to help him feel better

Rex’s condition worsened overnight and the vets called Crystal to say they thought he had a blockage. “They wanted to do an exploratory surgery which, they said, would be a couple of thousand dollars, plus meds and an extended hospital stay.”

The vet who performed the surgery found a small blockage – a rock or acorn – inside Rex’s small intestine. Crystal said: “The vets said that they were loathed to cut him to prevent complications and infection so they worked it into his large intestine and said he would pass it naturally from there. Whatever they did, he picked up his appetite again and once they had checked he was going to the bathroom, Rex was able to come home.

“The whole time, I kept him in constant touch with Chris. Nothing was too much trouble and he genuinely cared about what was happening with Rex. It was a huge relief to have US War Dogs on our side. We would have paid whatever was needed for Rex, of course, but US War Dogs covered the whole cost of Rex’s treatment which was over $3,000.”

Rex’s Recovery



Now Rex is home and recovering well, it has given time for Crystal to reflect on the impact of the worry and stress his illness caused the family. “It really was a state of emotional turmoil while Rex was sick. My little girl was so worried about him. We were so lucky that one of our friends from church worked in the vets and she sent us constant pictures and updates, which really helped my daughter.

Crystal and her family were worried sick about Rex as he recovered from his surgery

“At least your kids can tell you what’s wrong, but you don’t have that with a dog. The uncertainty is very stressful but he has pulled through and we are so happy to have him home.”

Crystal recalls that although Rex bounced back quickly post surgery, he struggled with some aspects of his recuperation: “He was not a fan of the cone so we got him a surgery shirt, which he tolerated a little more.

“It is so lovely to see Rex feeling mote like his normal self. He fights with the cat over who gets to lay under the Christmas tree – he thinks the Christmas tree skirt is his second bed.”

Honoring Out K-9 Veterans



After learning about MWDs and their contribution to our nation’s military, Crystal and her family do whatever they can to raise awareness of their service and sacrifice. “Rex has become quite the celebrity around here. We take him to the Bullrushes café where they serve free breakfasts to veterans on Tuesdays. Rex loves having his bacon from there and enjoys plenty of love from his fellow two-legged veterans. 

Rex meeting some of his fans

“Rex has also been out to greet the honor flights that bring Gold Star Families in to visit Arlington National Cemetery. Rex goes to the Home Town Heroes weekends at Greenstreet Gardens to meet the public; enjoy the corn maze and hang out with the goats while I tell everyone how amazing he is and how US War Dogs takes care of him and other MWDs.

“We set up an Instagram account to chart Rex’s retirement and help to raise awareness of what these dogs do for us. That includes the work of organizations like US War Dogs, whose support is a true blessing.”

Follow Rex on Instagram to follow his adventures in retirement.



Marine Corps K-9 Gunner Granted Second Chance, Thanks to US War Dogs

Retired multi-purpose canine (MPC) Gunner was a legend with everyone he worked with. Having racked up four deployments, he became a firm favourite with the teams he served with, thanks to his sweet, sociable nature. So, when the time came for Gunner to retire, there was a long list of people who wanted to take him home. 

“He wasn’t my dog but my good friend was his handler”, explains Charlie. “I did a K-9 medic course which is where I met Gunner. Some dogs aren’t fun to be around – the MPCs do a lot of bite training but he was really sociable and super sweet. One of our deployments was coming to an end in 2019 and my buddy hit me up to ask if I would like to retire him.”



Gunner’s handler had already adopted an MWD, which enabled Charlie to throw his hat in the ring to take him home. “What helped me get him in the end was the fact that I was married with no kids or other pets, and I had a back yard. Everyone that knew him really liked him so he had a few people queuing up, but I think it was my wife that really swung it for us!” 

Changes

After years of faithful service, Gunner has taken some time to transition into life as a civilian. “He was super anxious, so it took some time”, explained Charlie. “He wouldn’t go outside by himself and he follows me everywhere. The transition was a lot on my wife – she really helped him soften to be a house dog.



“Gunner is starting to realise that it’s ok to lay down and take a nap. The first two years were the most significant, then we moved to Florida in 2022 and he really found his old man routine.”

Gunner enjoying retired life

Gunner’s family first came into contact with US War Dogs in September 2024. “I had heard about you guys but Gunner had never needed anything. We took the time to make sure he was on the right food and supplements when he retired, which really saw him thrive.”

But as his advancing years caught up with him, Gunner began to slow down and struggle. “He went from being fine to not being able to navigate the hardwood floors in the house, so we decided to put some booties on him, which really helped.”

Deadly Sn-accident

When Charlie and his family went out of town for one night, Gunner – who had been left in the care of a friend – manifested some anxious behaviours. “When we got back, my wife noticed that he wasn’t right, and that his booties were nowhere to be found. We took him to the vet and they found two of the booties stuck in his intestines.”



Gunner underwent emergency surgery, which is when Charlie reached out to US War Dogs for help. “The surgery saved his life and we’d have done anything to get him better, but when the treatment totalled $5,000, I contacted War Dogs to see if they could help. They were incredible and told me that the bill would be covered in full.”

US War Dogs covered the cost of Gunner’s life-saving surgery

Charlie admits that the experience of accepting support from US War Dogs was a surreal one. “Being in the service myself, I’ve always been shy to ask for help from non-profits. When you’re staring down a $5k charge and working out how to balance it, it was a huge sigh of relief for me and my wife. We have a 15 month-old to think about too, so War Dogs’ support really was a gamechanger.”

US War Dogs covered Gunner’s treatment through our Emergency Care Program, which has helped scores of retired MWDs with care, since its launch in 2022.



Charlie admits that the surgery has knocked Gunner for six. “His age is becoming more of a factor these days and we are doing tests to see if there is anything more we can do to keep him more spry. One thing is sure, he wouldn’t be here now without that surgery and we are so grateful to US War Dogs for their help during that stressful time.”

Thank you for your service, Gunner

MWD and Handler: Conquering Anxiety Together 

Meet US Air Force dog handler, Sir’mann and his MWD, SSeneca and see how US War Dogs truly supports dog teams throughout their careers and – crucially – during retirement. 

Dog Team Daydreams

Sir’mann Toliver joined the Air Force in 2017 with a dream to become a K-9 handler. While many find K-9 handling interesting, the process to getting accepted into the program takes intensive time and effort. Toliver was accepted into the program and MWD SSeneca was his first match. Like most relationships, it took a few weeks for them to understand each other's communication styles. 

SSeneca had worked with multiple handlers in her past and was known for her leash biting and intense anxiety. While some individuals shied away from the challenge, Sir’mann made it his goal to work successfully together. Toliver picked up on her love for food, and from then on, the two clicked. They were a certified team in less than a month, then deployed to Africa in 2022. 

Toliver likened the bond that he and SSeneca developed to that of a child with a parent. Sir’mann said: “Our bond was incredibly close and we really became one another’s emotional support. SSeneca was there for me in a way that no one back home will ever truly understand.” 



Sseneca and Sir’mann’s bond became unbreakable

SSeneca retired in 2023 at 11 years old and was adopted by Sir’mann. During her time in the Air Force she clocked over 5,695 search hours and over 45,000 vehicle inspections. She was involved in the LVPD canine trials and placed 3rd in 2022 and first in 2023 among 80 other dogs.

Veterans Supporting Veterans

During their deployment period, SSeneca received multiple care packages from US War Dogs so when she retired, Sir’mann reached out to register her on the Rx Program. A few months ago, SSeneca woke up with a heavy cough. Sir’mann explains: “I left for work but when I came back, SSeneca hadn’t left her spot on the floor. With a heavy heart, I could sense she needed help.” Sir’mann rushed her to the emergency room and after multiple exams, the veterinary team found her lungs were collapsing. SSeneca would need to stay at the vet for multiple days and would also need a heavy dose of antibiotics. 

Sseneca was a recipient of US War Dogs’ Care Package Program while she and Sir’mann were on deployment in Africa

Toliver’s anxiety heightened. “I did not want to leave my best friend at the vet. I wanted to make sure she would be okay but I also couldn’t help but panic about the cost. I knew this would be a tremendous cost and felt sick to my stomach that I possibly wouldn’t be able to afford the care.”

US War Dogs came to mind from the care packages, and Sir’mann decided to reach out: “Within minutes, the US War Dogs president replied, ‘We’re here to help. Send the vet information and we’ll cover the entire cost.

“I replied to that message as a flood of tears streamed down my face. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to my other half and I couldn’t imagine having to make a decision like that based on money.” 

US War Dogs president, Chris Willingham, said: “SSeneca is a great example of how US War Dogs provides a life cycle of practical support for MWDs – both while one active duty and during their retirement. We were proud to send gear and care packages to SSeneca while she and Sir’mann were stationed overseas and when she came to retire, we not only enrolled her on the Rx Program, we also issued her with her Service Medal, in grateful thanks for her devotion to our country.



“We were more than happy to take care of SSeneca through our Emergency Care Program, which is designed to alleviate the financial burden from families when they need it most.”

Sseneca sporting her US War Dogs MWD Service Award



SSeneca has since recovered and continues to find energy to do the things she loves, like relaxing with her family. Toliver wants other retired personnel to know this option exists and saved SSeneca: “I believe that the dogs deserve a financial retirement just like I have, and that’s what US War Dogs does for dogs like SSeneca.”

US War Dogs is honored to support pups like SSeneca throughout their lives and careers

Kyra’s Killer Snack

Kyra munched her way into big trouble when she nabbed a corn on the cob from owner Kayla’s dinner table.

Kayla and Kyra served together for two and a half years as a dog team, with Kyra trained as a patrol and explosive detector dog (PEDD). But when she was medically retired with arthritis in 2022, Kyra's handler became her adoptive family.

Kyra required lifelong medications to keep her happy and healthy and so swift enrolment in US War Dogs’ Rx Program was a must.

The Belgian Shepherd mix – who retired with former handler Kayla last year – showed no immediate signs of danger, but Kayla knew the dangers of her dog stuffing down the corny snack and called the vet for advice.

“There was no way that nature would take its course on a corn husk of that size so I rushed her to the vet, who ordered up a scan to see where the husk was located. Surgery to remove the husk was our only option.”

Kyra needed an $8,000 surgery after snaffling a corn on the cob husk that became lodged in her gut

Kayla – who still serves with the US Navy – was quoted $8,000 for the surgery.

“I contacted US War Dogs and within 15 minutes, they had agreed to cover the cost of the treatment for Kyra, to make sure she was ok. I was so stressed – there was no way I could afford to pay that kind of money.”

With support from US War Dogs, Kyra received the treatment she needed to remove the husk – which quickly became a deadly obstruction in her digestive tract – so she could return home to retired life.



“I will always be grateful to US War Dogs for their support. It means the world.”

My Shadow

A tribute to Timothy and Shadow Read

The Read Family: Timothy, Anh and Shadow

Shadow retired to live with Anh and Timothy Read after nine years of service to the US Marine Corps in 2020. Her adoptive family showered her with love and affection and there was no doubt that she had found her forever home.

Shadow on one of her five deployments

As a Marine Corps veteran and double Purple Heart recipient, Timothy’s bond with Shadow was unbreakable. Shadow served five tours in Afghanistan as an explosive detection dog and although the pair never served together, their shared service and experience of combat made them soulmates.

Timothy’s Service and Sacrifice

Timothy served with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines and deployed to Marjah Afghanistan under Lt. Col Ellison and Sgt Maj Frye. Tim was wounded during a patrol on August 31, 2010, but chose to stay with his battalion as the unit had suffered multiple fatalities and was short with manpower.

However, on October 15, 2010, Tim stepped on a IED pressure plate which resulted in multiple life-changing injuries, including the loss of his left leg above the knee, collapsed lungs, wrist injuries, deafness. Tim also suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and blindness in one eye.

Timothy on deployment in Afghanistan

My Shadow

While recovering at the Balboa Hospital, San Diego, in 2014, Tim was introduced to Shadow R491. Tim’s wife Anh said: “It was love at first sight because when the Navy trainers released Shadow, she ran straight to Tim. We did the paperwork to adopt Shadow and waited for her retirement, when we were finally able to bring her home in 2015.

Once a Marine, Always a Marine: Timothy and Shadow

Supporting Shadow

Shadow was a member of US War Dogs’ Rx Program but when she was diagnosed with cancer in 2022, Tim contacted US War Dogs for help with her treatment. Shadow underwent extensive treatment and beat the cancer, much to the joy of Tim and Anh.

Anh said: “Shadow survived the gruelling treatment and bounced back to great health because of US War Dogs’ generosity. Her quality of life improved dramatically thanks to the medications that US War Dogs funded and we were thrilled to have our girl back.

“Shadow travelled with us everywhere. My husband and I made sure she enjoyed life to the fullest and that her retirement from deployment was filled with love (so much love), lots of treats, snuggles and toys.”

Tragically, Tim passed away suddenly last year, leaving Anh and Shadow to navigate life without him. “My husband and I could not have been more grateful for US War Dogs and the generous donors who support them. Shadow faithfully served my husband until his unexpected death.”

Retracing Footsteps

In February of this year, Anh went on a grief healing trip to the base where Shadow was adopted. “I didn’t want Shadow to make the journey with me so left her at home to rest. I brought along Shadow’s deployment documents to share with the staff at the Naval base.

“It has been a very long time since we adopted her so I didn't think anyone there would remember her. Amazingly her first handler, Chief Nobles, was there. He recognized Shadow immediately and shared many stories of her with me.

I could not have been prouder of her.

“It was also great to meet some of the individuals who had played a significant role in Tim’s recovery. I credit them with keeping him alive during those dark times at Balboa hospital.” 

Anh reunited with some key people who helped Tim during his recovery, including retired Marine Cheney – the deputy officer in charge of the Wounded Warrior Battalion – West, retired Marine Corps pilot Dennis DiLucente  and Kim Bozell, who suggested Tim should go and meet Shadow while he was recovering.

Never Long Enough

Devastatingly, Shadow passed away on 3 May of this year and in a final act of honor for her service to our country, US War Dogs paid for her final veterinary bill and cremation, through our Rainbow Bridge Assistance Program.

Anh said: “Shadow had an incredible life – both in active duty and in retirement.

Shadow went everywhere with us and met many interesting people, including Prince Harry while we were at the Invictus games. She even got a kiss from him!

“Shadow was the first working dog to receive a special Commendation from the City of Tampa, presented by our local firemen. She was in a few parades, including the Warrior Games parade, Gasparilla parade and the Tampa St. Patty parade.

“None of these treasured memories would have been possible without the US War Dogs Association Rx Program and the financial support for Shadow's radiation treatment. They even paid for her final dignified goodbye to be with her dad. We love you very much and will never forget your generosity and kindness.”

Anh concludes: “Please send our deepest gratitude to your generous donors. What an amazing program US War Dogs is – honoring these incredible, loyal heroes.”

US War Dogs president, Chris Willingham, said: “We send our love and support to Anh in this time of great sorrow. We thank Tim and Shadow for their service and feel honored to have supported them in their journey together.

“Never above you, never below you, always beside you.”

Click here to view a moving tribute paid to Shadow by her local TV news.

It’s a Hard Nox Life

Retired US Army patrol and explosive detector dog (PEDD), Nox, is no stranger to veterinary treatment, having broken his ankle while on active duty in 2022. But when his former handler and adopted dad, Jared, noticed him limping after his walk, he came to learn just how much US War Dogs would do to help our nation’s retired MWDs.

Jared and Nox were paired together in 2018 while stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), Alaska. After certifying through the Army’s enhanced PEDD training program (PEDD-E), the dog team proceeded to enjoy a rich and varied career, providing protection and detection capabilities to VIPs and dignitaries across the US, as well as completing a deployment to Honduras. 

Nox and Jared flying to a drop-off location with Honduran soldiers

Jared explains: “We’ve been fortunate to spend our entire careers together. Typically, MWDs don’t PCS with handlers, but because Nox and I had completed the PEDD-E course, we were authorized to go together. I always praise God for that because my heart would have shattered if I’d had to leave him behind.”

In December 2021, the dog team moved to Fort Hood, TX, to begin training for recertification and assist in multiple joint medical training exercises, where Nox was able to give medical personnel hands-on experience with an MWD. “This provided them with a crucial understanding of how to treat injured MWDs on the battlefield.”

Nox in training with Jared

Wounded



Nox’s time at Fort Hood came to an abrupt end when he suffered an extreme injury to his front right ankle. Jared explained: “It happened during a training exercise and he was immediately taken to the vet. Surgery was mandatory for this kind of damage so they splinted his leg to try to keep it stable until a surgery date could be established. He had to go down to Lackland Air Force base where the Holland Dog Hospital is located for the operation.”

A nasty break and a long recovery

Nox spent four months in post-op recovery, which included removing the metal plate that had been placed in his ankle to stabilize the leg. In February 2023, the process of retiring Nox from the Army had also begun.

Jared said: “The primary vet at the clinic on Fort Hood was incredibly empathetic to Nox’s situation. He wrote up paperwork, stating that Nox should be allowed to come home with me while recovering from his operation – as well as from some other injuries he caused himself while in the kennel runs during his recovery.

“My commander signed off on it and just like that, Nox was home with me. It took a handful of months for the process to finalize but on March 27, 2023 Nox was officially retired from his service in the Army. Only a handful of months after that I went on terminal leave to enjoy some time before my contract in the Active Duty Army was complete. My leave my fiancé Danielle and I took Nox on a road trip across the country, ending in my home state of Washington State. Nox loved his vacation.”

Nox, Jared and Danielle enjoy the west coast in Washington State

Nox was recovering well from his injury and a few months after he was discharged from the Army, Jared reached out to US War Dogs to sign him up to the Rx Program. “The meds he needed were running out so I reached out to see what kind of support we could get. The guys at US War Dogs turned around his application in double quick time and we were off and running with his refills, which was an incredible financial relief.”

Walkie Whoopsie

Everything was going well until December of 2023 when Nox suffered another injury while at the dog park. “Danielle had him checked out but the vet assumed something else was causing Nox to continue to limp on his back left leg. After another month, Nox showed no signs of improvement and in January of this year, we took him back to the vet again. They performed a more thorough examination, as well as some X-rays and discovered that Nox had torn a ligament in his knee.”

Jared and his fiancé were quoted just over $6,000 for the surgery required to fix Nox’s ligament. “To pay for this operation would have caused an incredible financial burden on me and my family. While we were trying not to panic and get this situation sorted out, I decided to reach out to the War Dogs Association again, thinking it would be a long shot. They had me file the necessary paperwork and said they would get back to me with a decision.

“By the goodness of God through this tremendous organization, they replied to me and said they would cover the operation in FULL! On top of that, the president of the organization was the one to reach out to me directly to give me that news. From that point on, we were in consistent communication as Mr. Chris Willingham, gave me his personal number and to told me to reach out when payment needed to be made. The entire process from the moment I reached out till payment after the surgery was truly exemplary.

“Since then, Nox has been healing wonderfully and is on track to make a full recovery.”  

Nox recovering with the help of some strong pain meds

Jared, his fiancé and Nox, demonstrate exactly why US War Dogs exists – to alleviate the financial burden from handlers and take care of our retired heroes when they need it most.

US War Dogs president, Chris Willingham, said: “It has been our pleasure to help Nox and his family in this way and we are thrilled that his progress is holding steady. We can only continue to provide this care by virtue of our incredible supporters, who make our support possible. On behalf of the team at US War Dogs and Nox, we can’t thank you enough.

Jared continued: “It is quite upsetting that retired Military Working Dogs don’t get some sort of VA benefits after their loyal service to our great country. They work so incredibly hard day in and day out to please their handlers and get the mission done, whatever it might be.

“These dogs are so much more than equipment, though some might refer to them as such. They are our partners. Loyal companions that will go to the ends of the earth to please us. Nox has become the best friend that I never knew I needed. The bond that we developed over our military service together is something truly special.

“To have an organization like the US War Dogs Association come to our aid at a time of great need, and to treat Nox with such care, dignity, and respect, is something truly outstanding. They get it. They understand what these dogs mean to us. They understand the needs that these veterans have because of all the intense training and utilization that they go through.

“From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I praise God that there is an organization like yours out there helping people put back the pieces when things just seem to keep falling apart. Your kindness and generosity will never be forgotten.”

Not Being With Dad Really Gets Under Drago’s Skin

Drago joined the Rx Program in 2021 when he was medically retired from his  career as a patrol and explosives detection dog (PEDD) in the US Air Force, thanks to a complex and painful skin condition. He was also suffering with hip dysplasia, so it was time for him to slow things down.

His former handler Bryan adopted Drago, who settled in well with his family. As he adjusted to a slower pace of life, his skin issues began to calm down and his zest for life increased. “He was clearly feeling so much better – it was wonderful to see. He was skipping around like a puppy again.”

Drago continued to take pain medication for his hip dysplasia and US War Dogs was happy to step in to cover the costs.

Around 15 months into Drago’s retirement – in August 2022 – Bryan was asked to deploy at short notice, which included an initial six weeks of training. Bryan said: “Drago started to show signs of his skin issues returning. His skin was raw from the bacteria and he was constantly licking, which made it worst.”

After a trip to the vets for more meds, Drago’s issues had been linked to separation anxiety with Bryan leaving. Bryan said: “I came back from training for about 20 days and although his skin was still raw, it wasn’t as bad as a few weeks prior.”

But when Bryan shipped out for his deployment, Drago’s skin reacted horribly. “Within three weeks of me being gone, his entire underbody was raw and the hair had fallen out.

“My wife had to take him to see the vet team and he was so bad, they needed to sedate him to clean and treat his skin. In that moment, we started to get really worried. Drago was getting on in years and that the vet warned that sedating a dog of his age is always a risk.”

As well as being desperately worried about Drago, Bryan and his family had the added worry of paying for emergency veterinary treatment.

“My wife was trying to sort everything out and with the time difference and being so far away, I felt really helpless. Everything happened so fast, we just wanted Drago to be better, so we paid for everything and took the vet’s advice on the best possible treatment.”

While the ordeal was unfolding, Bran reached out to US War Dogs to see if there was anything the organization could do to help Drago.

War Dogs president Chris Willingham said: “Our Emergency Care Program is designed to come into play in situations just like this. You have a deployed hander; a family trying to deal with the upset of a very sick retired MWD – who is now their beloved family pet – and mounting vet bills to pay. I was honored that US War Dogs could step in to alleviate some of the burden in those moments.”

Bryan recalls, “After I reached out, Chris got back to me to say that they would reimburse all the money we’d spent on Drago’s treatment so far and that War Dogs would cover the remaining costs directly with the vet hospital.”

After a long period of recovery last year, Drago had a really good spell of health until a couple of months ago, when Bryan had to leave again for a month of training. “My wife spotted the signs straight away and took him back to the vets. I couldn’t believe his skin was so reactive to my leaving him. It really broke my heart.”

 Drago had a long road to recovery but thanks to lots of TLC and some strong medication, he is much better. “There have been a few bad moments where his body has reacted badly to the steroids, because of his age, but he is in a really good place now and is back to his old self again.”

Drago is always going to have skin flare-ups, but thanks to US War Dogs, he receives the medications he needs.

Bryan said, “Drago, myself and my family are forever grateful for you guys and CANNOT thank y’all enough!” 

Welcome to the Pack, Vuk!

Our Rx Program is the entry point for all retired MWDs whose owners register with us to receive help. Often, owners don’t need to take advantage of the service straight away – which covers the cost of prescription medications through Curexa Pharmacy. But in cases like that of retired explosive patrol detector dog (PEDD), Vuk, a regime of medications was needed right away.

Vuk enjoyed an extremely busy career, certifying in Camp Lejeune in 2018. He was key to supporting a number of US Secret Service missions across the country, protecting political dignitaries and the POTUS. 

Vuk worked on high level missions, supporting the USSS

But Vuk’s career was cut short, thanks to a case of extreme arthritis which limited his mobility significantly. Vuk retired to live with his adoptive mom, Amanda, at their home in North Carolina, earlier this year. Amanda said: “Vuk is the second MWD I’ve adopted and he is a real sweetheart. He has taken to retirement like a pro, learning to love being a couch potato and running around with my three other dogs.”

Vuk is firmly part of the pack

Vuk takes three different medications each month, at a cost of over $100. US War Dogs covers that cost, freeing Vuk’s family from the financial burden of taking care of him, after he gave his best years in service to our country.

Amanda said: “Vuk takes a cocktail of meds to keep his joints supple and his pain managed, and I couldn’t be more grateful to US War Dogs for this support. These dogs deserve the best and I am honored to give Vuk a loving home.”

If you’d like to support our mission, click here to make a donation. 

Handler Highlight: Jessica and MWD Mega

Anyone who has spent time working with military working dogs understands the power they have to entertain, enthrall, and inspire. The love they show and the skills they possess are infectious and their amour is one of the million reasons why the K-9 community is one of the tightest-knit brotherhoods on earth.

We were recently inspired to hear the story of one of our former Rx dogs who sadly passed away recently – Retired MWD Mega R119 and her handler, Jessica. Not only did Mega bring Jessica the love and devotion that only an MWD can – she also inspired her handler and adoptive mom to choose a whole new career path.

Service

Jessica served with the United States Air Force from November 2012 to February 2019. Stationed in Luke AFB in Phoenix, AZ and Altus AFB, OK, Jessica started her military career in the security forces before transitioning to K-9, where she would be paired with patrol explosive detector dog (PEDD), Mega.

“Mega was assigned to different handlers in support of global contingency operations alongside the US Secret Service and Joint Department of Defense Operations, which included presidential security”, Jessica explains. “As part of those key duties, she dedicated countless hours to explosive detection, executing more than 1,440 random anti-terrorist measures; safeguarding 12,500 military and civilian personnel.

“Mega also deployed to Qatar, Kuwait and Jordan in support of both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Inherent Resolve. Needless to say, she was a hero who served honorably!”

Jess and Mega served side by side for seven years

Shortly after their last deployment together, Mega began showing signs of arthritis, lower spine disease and hip dysplasia, all of which required her to retire from military service. Jess was given the chance to adopt her, which she jumped at. In 2019, as Mega was preparing for retirement, Jessica transitioned away from the Air Force to pursue her dream to study to become a veterinarian. She said: “That was a big year for both of us, but I was so thrilled to bring Mega home to live out her remaining years with me. During our time working together, we had formed an unbreakable bond, but as time passed with Mega sharing a home with me, that bond grew extraordinarily strong.”

Jessica enrolled Mega into US War Dogs’ Rx Program, which covered the cost of the medication to keep the pain caused by her various conditions at bay. “It was definitely a load off my back to have Mega’s medications taken care of, particularly as a full-time student. It was heartwarming to know that organizations like War Dogs existed to support these beautiful animals, who give their best years in service to the military.” 

Mega enjoyed the very best retirement with Jess

“As anyone I worked with and they will tell you that I treated Mega more like a princess than an attack dog – and I won’t deny it! I would have done anything in the world for her and continued to do just that until her time on this earth ended.”

A Mega Inspiration

Jess’s time as an MWD handler helped her to gain an invaluable appreciation for these incredible dogs and the contributions they make to our nation’s military services. “Being a K-9 handler provided me with amazing experiences and some of my proudest moments. Deploying with Mega was one of those moments – seeing her execute daily operations filled me with pride. We conducted over four thousand vehicle searches and searched ten tons of cargo to protect $3 billion dollars’ worth of assets and over two thousand personnel. Mega’s skills made a genuine difference – she was incredible.

“Being a K9 handler in the Air Force inspired me to become a military veterinarian. Most importantly, what inspired and motivated me to this very day to go into the veterinary world and continue to accomplish my goal to become a military veterinarian, is Mega. Without Mega, I would not have been able to see how special and how important these military working dogs are. 

Jess’s career in veterinary medicine has been inspired by her bond with Mega

“Our bond was out of this world, and it is unexplainable. The love and experience Mega gave me helps me to empathize with the dogs I treat now, because I know exactly what they are going through on a day-to-day basis. I also want to help these dogs to do their job and then leave the military so that they can actually have a retirement like Mega did.

“Mega will forever be a part of me and she changed my life for the better. She is the reason I am on this path and I am doing it for her.”

Retired US Air Force patrol and explosive detection (PEDD) dog, Jack has been adjusting to life as a tripod after a nasty infection meant that he needed his hind leg amputating. Through US War Dogs’ partnership with Compassion First, we were able to facilitate Jack’s treatment pro bono, alleviating the financial burden on his adopted owner and former military service member, Amanda. Here’s Jack’s story.

Despite the best possible care, Jack continued to have problems with his leg. “He had an infection and was resistant to the medication, so the infection was getting worse. The vets tried to stabilise the leg by inserting a metal rod because the bone was being eaten away.

“The worst part was that you could tell he was in pain. He’s only five years old and although he still wanted to play, you could see it was making him miserable.”

The perfect storm for Jack came when the infection, which continued to resist medication, caused the bone to fuse to the rod that had been fitted to stabilize his leg. “His issues were so complex that the only option now was amputation. It was a scary prospect but it was Jack’s only hope.”

Amanda reached out to US War Dogs to see if they could help with the surgery. “We were quoted $2,000 for the surgery, which is money we don’t have laying around.”

But thanks to US War Dogs’ partnership with Compassion First, the team were able to assist. “I called our contact at Compassion First to see if there were any veterinary hospitals local to Jack that would be able to help with the surgery”, explains US War Dogs president, Chris Willingham.

“Our partnership began with Red Bank Veterinary Hospital in New Jersey back in 2014, but when they were bought out by Compassion First – who owns over 100 hospitals across the US – we have been able to reach out to see if local veterinarians would be willing to assist with discounted or pro bono surgeries for retired MWDs.”

Chris reached out to Nicole Garcia at Mission Vet Specialty Emergency, who was happy to perform the surgery on Jack.

“Chris confirmed everything and we called to book Jack in. I dropped him off in the morning at 7am and I didn’t get to pick him up until the next day. They called me before and after surgery and were so great at keeping me informed.”

The team informed Amanda that the amputation was fairly normal but she was still concerned as to how he would adjust. “He rested for the first two weeks and we had to make sure he stayed downstairs (where he normally sleeps). He did really well and recovered beautifully. 

“After a couple of weeks, he was like a new dog! Jumping and running around like a puppy – it was so great to see.”



Jack has taken to life on three legs with all the zest and enthusiasm expected from a GSD. Amanda said: “He is still super sweet and friendly. It actually takes people a while to notice that he only has three legs. He hasn’t lost his youthful bounce either – sometimes I race him to the mailbox and he still beats me!

“Whenever I take him with me to my daughter’s school, he loves kids. He thinks everyone wants to pet him.”

And what does Amanda think of US War Dogs? “The team are amazing and they pulled out all the stops to take care of Jack. They wanted updates on how he was doing and have been super sweet. I am so grateful to Mission Vet and to US War Dogs for taking such great care of our boy.”

Here’s to many happy years on three legs, Jack!