Two US Navy sailors faced a difficult decision after rescuing two abused and unwanted puppies in the Middle East. They had just taken the dogs into care for them to recuperate, but were later told that they would be deployed to Japan shortly after. Leaving behind their new family members is not an option.
Sheriff Matt Johnson and his wife, veteran Coreen Johnson, were stationed in the Middle East when they discovered two dogs in need on separate occasions. This couple has always had a deep love for animal welfare, which is why they immediately stopped when they saw two dogs in need of help.
Peeking through a hole in the metal fence was a small dog being used as a decoy dog. The couple could not leave the lonely animal behind, so they negotiated with the person holding the girl. All it took was a $10 offer to convince the owner to give the puppy to the Johnsons. After taking her home, they favorably named her Ruby.
Just a few months later, Coreen came across another dog in dire need of help. He was lying on the side of the road and seemed to be standing at the door of death. Coreen immediately pulled him up and decided that he would go home with her.
The poor dog has been abused and abandoned and is suffering burns after a group of local children tried to set it on fire. Even with the trauma he has just endured, he is very friendly and loving. Her husband Matt adopted the injured dog and they decided to name it Sunny.
As soon as their family of four was completed, the couple received word that they would soon be sent to Japan for their next deployment. They then face the possibility of having to part with their new rescues, as they are unsure if they will be able to take Ruby and Sunny with them.
“I didn’t know what to do because we had to leave, and I couldn’t live without them. We don’t have children of our own. These dogs are our family and Paws of War totally understands that.” – Coreen Johnson
Not wanting to abandon the animals that had finally found safety in their care, the couple turned to an organization that specializes in dealing with situations like these – Feet of War. They work to save animals found in war-torn areas and bring them back to safety in America. When possible, they even reunite these dogs and cats with the brave soldiers who saved them.
Paws of War understands the Johnsons’ plight and vows to help the dogs arrive at their new base in Japan. It was an incredibly difficult challenge, but the organization was able to locate a flight from the Middle East that would reunite Ruby and Sunny with their devoted parents.
The family of four is now reunited in Japan and happier than ever. The Johnsons cannot imagine a life without Sunny and Ruby, and they are grateful for the contributions that have made this possible.
We encourage you according to Paws of War’s impressive work and help them support many animals in need overseas!
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