Baghdad Pups -- No Buddy Gets Left Behind (please help)

[LostinVA]

I saw something about this over in the Pets forum, and figured it would get more exposure here.

Our hearts never fully recover from the loss of a beloved pet. The bond we share with the pets we love is stronger than even death, and the grief we experience at their passing lasts years if not for the rest of our lives. We can never really forget those animals that have touched our hearts and made life more enjoyable with their companionship, playfulness, and unconditional love.

Now imagine that, not death nor sickness, but circumstances dictate that you and your pet must be separated FOREVER. Not only that, but you must leave your healthy pet behind in a hostile environment where its chance of survival is minimal and likelihood of abuse and cruel treatment are all but guaranteed. That is what some of our brave soldiers stationed in the Middle East face today. But the bond our soldiers have formed with these companion animals doesn’t have to be severed this way. Something can be done and that’s where you can help.

One night, while on guard duty with the US Armed Forces in Iraq, Sgt. Watson’s squadron returned from patrol with a new buddy. Weak, malnourished, and at death’s door, a black and white puppy had decided to adopt the soldiers of the unit known as Charlie Company. Sgt. Watson wrapped the shivering puppy in a blanket, gave it some clean water, a portion of his own rations, and provided what refuge and comfort he could for a poor life he expected would sadly end in a few days – another innocent life cut short in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

But the puppy rallied back, thriving on the care, attention and affection of Sgt. Watson and the members of his platoon. A real survivor, the puppy was named Charlie (after the military unit) and before long the growing puppy bonded not only with Sgt. Watson but with the other soldiers.
Soon Charlie was the company’s mascot, companion, and four-legged morale booster. Brought back from the brink of death, Charlie has come to represent hope and stands as a living symbol of the power of love and compassion over war and despair.

US Military Units are constantly on the move so, before Sgt. Watson and his men are forced to abandon their mascot to certain homelessness and ultimate starvation, Charlie needs transport to the United States – NOW. The obstacles are numerous but not insurmountable. Your generous donations will help the SPCA in its exhaustive efforts to arrange for the transportation, shots, veterinary review and medical clearance to get Charlie out of Iraq.

Charlie is but one example of the amazing bonds formed between soldiers and companion animals. Many other dogs (and cats) who have been adopted by US soldiers abroad are in similar predicaments. While our brave men and women selflessly serve our country, we can get involved by helping to rescue the animals who have provided them with hope and love in the midst of the grim realities of war.

Working together, we can help rescue these animals who have meant so much to these American heroes who put their lives on the line everyday. Let’s bring Charlie from the war zone to a safe home because no Buddy should be left behind.

www.baghdadpups.com

[alstephenson]

1. Thanks for posting!

I saw this on the Pets Forum and was hoping someone would post on GD.

[melody]

2. K&R n/t

[roguevalley]

3. consider it done, my dear. at last, a positive thing to do on this forum.

:)

[LostinVA]

6. Something we definitely need more of

That dog Charlie looks JUST like my border collie, Mick. Mick has prick ears, though.

[RamboLiberal]

4. K&R - I was looking for a charity today

I try to donate every pay to some worthy charity.

[LostinVA]

5. That's a very generous idea

[Rosemary2205]

7. You'll probably call me a fucking asshole

but all I can think about is all the animals left to die in our own local shelters -- and we are going to send money to bring strays from another country here.

I'm all for support the troops but this feels wrong..........

[shireen]

11. i won't .. but you're missing the point

these are dogs who have already established strong bonds with soldiers. These dogs helped them get through the incredible stress of war. These dogs gave them something to love and nurture in the midst of destruction and sorrow.

This is not about rounding up stray dogs and sending them to the US. It's about rescuing and preserving established strong relationships. These aren't just dogs, they are the best friends/canine kid of soldiers who served our country. I will gladly support this effort to reunite best friends.

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

8. Charlie is already in the US. :)

http://www.wusa9.com/news/regional/story.aspx?storyid=68560

[LostinVA]

9. I saw that later from their links page

Charlie looks just like my dog, Mick.

[OmmmSweetOmmm]

10. He's a cutie!