We consider these dogs special members of the team and understand the value and heroic contributions these animals make in the defense of our country. I have never been a K-9 handler, but can surely see how every handler past or present has developed that same special relationship that I have had with every one our family pets.

Back in 2003, old Reckless began to show serious signs of aging. She was then an estimated 17 years old. She was blind in one eye and had significant hearing loss. I was troubled by the turmoil of trying to ascertain her degree of suffering and ultimately had to make the hardest decision I have ever made in my life. I reached the conclusion that Reckless was dying and did not want her to suffer any longer.

Arriving home one afternoon, before my kids came home from school, I picked Reckless up and took her for a ride. Sitting in my lap I talked to her and told her how much I was going to miss her. We went to a fast-food restaurant drive-through where I bought her, her very own hamburger. We then proceeded on our way to the veterinarian. I checked in with the staff and after a few signatures, it was time. A staff member came to take Reckless away but, I insisted that I be the one to hold her until the end. We sat down together. All the while I was rubbing her ears while she stared at me with her big brown eyes. With tears welling up in my eyes and Reckless looking up at me with unquestioning trust and love, the staff lady gave her a shot, and in seconds Reckless was gone. A loyal and trusted to friend to the end, just like the K-9s here in Iraq.

As so many animal lovers say, there surely must be a special place in heaven for these creatures that love us so. Boy, I miss my dog.