Dog Community

Bring Earl Home-JackieG

Posted : 6/25/2013 6:09:46 PM

I've been following this story on FB and wanted to share with those who may have missed it or don't do FB. A short summary in case the link doesn't work.

Earl is a black Lab who served our country overseas as a bomb detection dog. His handler was injured by a bomb, as was Earl, and he credits Earl with saving his life. The Marine never forgot his dog and his sister started a search for Earl to attempt a reunion. With the help of many people and the wonder of FB she found Earl was serving as a K9 officer in Rhode Island. She contacted the law enforcement agency and the result is that Earl is now officially retired from all duty and living with the handler who never forgot his dog. Big Smile We just watched the story on NBC news and though I knew the outcome my husband and I both cried like babies.

The bond formed between handlers and dogs is something unique. To know they are reunited fills me with joy and the response from so many people restores my faith in mankind.

Here's the link:

https://www.facebook.com/BringMwdEarlHome

calliecritturs

Posted : 6/25/2013 6:15:59 PM

I will have to catch it online later -- but I called and told my mother about it -- she would like something like this. In fact, *smile* she said "Well, I WISH they would make a movie out of something like this -- it would be nice to have something really decent to watch!" Yep = that's Mom! Thanks Jackie.

marlania

Posted : 6/25/2013 6:43:34 PM

I'll cry too much if I watch it. Anytime I see a funeral pic of a fallen solider or police officer and the dog is by the casket, I go into that ugly cry lol.

kpwlee

Posted : 6/25/2013 7:16:44 PM

Not sure how I missed this on FB, but I did so thanks for bringing it to my attention, a good story indeed

FrisbyPI

Posted : 6/25/2013 7:28:50 PM

They showed the ceremony up here a few days ago--yeah for all involved.Earl had moved to civilian service. The trooper who now handled him very willingly returned him to the Marine, though I know it must have been difficult. Bravo to all! (A friend's son is one of the veterinarians who cares for the active military animals--he did a lot of his vet training up here at Tufts.)

JackieG

Posted : 6/25/2013 8:04:15 PM

Kate, I saw part of the ceremony in RI and it was so moving. The trooper obviously cared very much for Earl and giving him to the Marine was a huge gesture of compassion. Earl must be one of the luckiest retired military working dogs ever. The government may consider them equipment but that couldn't be farther from the truth for those who care for these dogs and appreciate the lives they save.