Military members nationwide face numerous challenges when they get ready to deploy.
But for those who have pets, it’s an even bigger stress.
Kevin Mccartin and Canine Corps are going on the 7th year helping deployed dog owners.
“That’s it dog, good girl,” says Kevin Mccartin as he pets a dog.
A veteran himself, Mccartin started the charity after a visit to a New Orleans shelter.
“The most heart rendering surrenders were at shelters near military bases when there were deployments because the soldiers had nowhere to let them go so that struck me,” says Mccartin.
Now Rebel, Lady, and Dixie have a fenced in backyard to run around in–
“It`s just a little comfort of home,” says volunteer, Jess Derrickson.
–and constant interaction.
“Good girl Dixie,” says a volunteer.
For some who serve in the military these dogs are their family, their kids, the only ones welcoming them home… so for Mccartin keeping them safe and healthy is his number one goal.
“At least they know their dog is not being crated, they’re not being left for hours at a time without any attention,” says Derrickson.
Canine Corps has helped more than 100 owners to date, and luckily never had to endure the loss of a soldier. Mothers who’ve lost a child in combat are often his biggest supporters.
“They have that connection to the service people because their kids never came home,” says Mccartin as he wipes tears away.
Mccartin says caring for “military guests” is the least he and his volunteers can do.