In The News
MARKET WATCH: Smallest Dog Wins Nation's Biggest Prize As Chihuahua Clinches Top Title Of "American Hero Dog" At The 2015 American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards®
CONVERSE, TX,
September 20, 2015
Tags:
Supporting Veterans
Smallest Dog Wins Nation's Biggest Prize As Chihuahua Clinches Top Title Of "American Hero Dog" At The 2015 American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards® Military Dogs category ( sponsored by the RIMADYL K-9 Courage Program™ from Zoetis) WINNER: Rambo (Converse, TX) – Sgt. Rambo served in the Marine Corps from January 2011-April 2012 as an explosive detection MWD based out of Cherry Point, N.C. While on active duty, Rambo conducted 994 hours of training and 622 missions on base and in his local community. Rambo was medically retired due to a left shoulder injury and in November 2012 had to have that limb amputated. Rambo has gone on to be Alamo Honor Flight's mascot, accompanying countless World War II veterans to Washington, D.C. and even having the honor of meeting Senator and Mrs. Bob Dole, serving as the official ambassador for the Canine Members of the Armed Forces Act, and attending press conferences with both Congressman Walter Jones of North Carolina and Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut. Rambo is currently the mascot for Gizmo's Gift, a Texas nonprofit that offers financial support to families who adopt a retired working dog. While visiting local nursing homes he is able to bring love and life to the residents who suffer with dementia. He visits youth groups during the summer and brings hope to children with special needs.
Special Congressional Mention Rambo and his handler Lisa Phillips received special mention from Congressmen Gus Bilirakis (FL) and Henry Cuellar (TX), founders of the Congressional Caucus for the Humane Bond. "Each of these highly trained dogs saves an estimated 150 to 200 lives on the battlefield," said Congressman Bilirakis. "And after returning home, these military dogs continue to save lives, helping veterans to cope with the hidden wounds of war. That's why we've been working with American Humane Association to bring all these heroes home once they retire and reunite them with their hero handlers. "America's brave military dog teams keep our nation safe, and no warrior should ever be deprived of his Battle Buddy," said Congressman Cuellar. "The Hero Dog Awards' Military Dog category honors America's brave canine warriors – and I'm proud to say that this year's winner, Military Working Dog Rambo, hails from Converse, Texas – my home district. Congratulations to MWD Rambo and his mom Lisa Phillips as they continue to help both Veterans and their brave military dogs" (Charity Partner: America's VetDogs, the Veteran's K-9 Corps) |