As you're completing your Christmas list purchases, you might want to make room for a few more items to give away this season. There are working dogs in the U.S. Armed Forces that you could make happy by sending them a care package filled with doggie treats and essentials.
These military dogs work alongside soldiers in war zones and hostile areas. They put their lives on the line to guard checkpoints, track bombs, detect explosives or support in search-and-rescue operations. The dogs' assignments are difficult, but many have been used in the field since World War I, and there are about 3,000 currently in service, according to Dog Time.
If you're inclined to show your appreciation and support for these military dogs, you can send them a care package. Here's how you can do it:
1) Scout for Military Working Dog (MWD) organizations.
Many of these groups have websites where you can learn more information. To name a few:
Military Working Dog (MWD)
The United States War Dog Association, Inc.
Operation K-9 Care Package
Military Working Dog Team Support Association (MWDTSA)
2) Put your care package together.
Once you've decided where to send your care package, it's time to purchase the items at retail and pet stores. The dogs usually need water bowls, dog shampoos, toothpaste and toothbrushes, clippers, brushes and combs, cooling mats and vests, salves for paws and noses, doogles, chew toys and dog treats, according to Barkpost. Make sure that the items you're going to send are U.S.-approved or approved by the military dog group you're planning to give them to.
At the stores, don't forget to check out special deals specifically aimed at care package requirements, according to Military Shoppers. You might also want to add a few extra items for the dog handlers, like sunblock and chewing gum or beef jerky.
Don't forget your note to the dogs and their handlers! This will be highly appreciated.
3) Make a monetary donation in lieu of sending the package.
The organizations also accept donations in the form of money, which they will use to buy the items on your behalf. If you want, you can specify and instruct them on what items should be bought with the money you donated, and the package will be sent to the military dogs under your name.
