While many people are familiar with the many U.S. soldiers serving in the Middle East, they are not aware of the dogs that often serve alongside them. Some of the dogs serve in official positions helping the military effort, while others are strays that the soldiers become attached to. Rather than having to leave those dogs behind, two U.S. soldiers will be adopting the dogs they have formed bonds with. The dogs will be transported from the military zone in the Middle East where they are stationed, and will be waiting for them upon their return back to the States, thanks to the work of Guardians of Rescue.

Paws of War, a nonprofit organization that helps animals and veterans, focuses on effective solutions for suffering veterans

Honoring our furry friends this April 11th, National Pet Day

April 11th is National Pet Day, making it a great time to consider the many reasons why pets play such an important role in our lives. Millions of people around the country have pets, most commonly cats and dogs, and they can feel the benefits, but there are some they may not even be aware of. Pets bring more to our lives than just a few laughs as they do something silly and pose for the camera. They give us a better quality of life and come with a dose of health benefits.

“Many people greatly underestimate just how much having a pet in their life does for their psychological well-being, as well as their overall health,” explains Will Post, founder and CEO, Hound & Gatos Pet Foods Corporation. “Pets play a very important role in enriching our lives in many different ways.”

Here are some of the important roles that pets play in human lives: