While in Gaza supporting the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, U.S. soldiers discovered 10 abandoned dogs and decided to rescue them. With help from Let the Animals Live in Israel and SPCA International’s Patriot Pets program, the pups, who were suffering from malnutrition, ticks, and worms, were given medical care and prepared to be shipped to America. Marine Corps Special Operations Sniper Brandon Zielinski says the soldiers had formed bonds with the animals during their deployment and didn’t want to leave them behind.
SPCA International’s Patriot Pets program, which began in 2008, helps U.S. service members and government workers bring animals they bond with during deployments back home. Program director Lori Kalef explains that the animals have to undergo vaccinations, blood testing, and approval from customs authorities before entering the country, a process that can take several months.
Kenneth Hamill, a service member from Harker Heights, Texas, was recently reunited with one of the pups, Smokey, a six-month-old dog he’d learned about through a friend. Hamill says he chose to adopt Smokey believing the dog would fit well with his family, including his children. He describes the new addition as curious and friendly, and says he’s adjusting to his new home with Hamill’s family.
Source: FOX 44 NEWS
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