Shawn Johnson and his 14-year-old K9 partner, Vvalerie, served in the Army, side by side overseas in Iraq until her retirement in 2015.
Johnson then adopted her, and she got to spend the last four years as a normal dog, enjoying her new, relaxing civilian life in Little Rock, Arkansas.
“I could not be more proud to have served alongside her,” Johnson wrote on Facebook. “She was my partner, my best friend, and owned a VERY special place in my heart.”
“We shared experiences while serving in Iraq that most people can only imagine. She spent her life serving others and seeking as much love from her handlers as possible.”
Sadly, this past Monday, it was time for Johnson to say goodbye to his beloved partner. He brought her to the veterinarian’s office to be put to sleep, as she was struggling in her day to day life.
“Today, I walked you into the vets office with the same leash we walked the streets of Iraq with and left with just the leash,” he wrote. “I spent months preparing to say goodbye, knowing the day would come.”
But Johnson was not ready for a life without his best friend.
“I did not prepare myself to come home to a cold and quiet house,” he continued. “Not having you follow me around and watch my every move. Seeing your toys laying around, seeing your empty bed knowing I would never see you running after bad guys in your dreams, ever again. Our home has become a house to me for the time being. You will be missed and always remembered.”
Johnson posted a touching tribute video for his beloved Vvalerie, which you can watch below:
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Posted by Shawn Johnson on Tuesday, November 19, 2019
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Lucky Elderly Man Is Greeted Every Day By A “Friend” Who Crawls Out Of The Ice:
We’ve all seen some unique and unlikely friendships over the years, but this one here may take the cake!
One day, a starving otter appeared at an elderly man’s door wanting some food. Ever since, Seppo Laamanen, 65, and Iivari the otter have been inseparable best friends.
Source: StoryTrender/YouTube
It all started when Seppo fed worms and fish to the small and malnourished otter who was clearly looking for food.
After that, the friendly animal repaid the kindness by visiting the man at his home in Punkaharju in easter Finland. This was the start of something special.
Source: StoryTrender/YouTube
There’s no way Seppo could’ve ever imagined it’d all lead to this. This adorably unique friendship is one for the ages, and it’s something you have to see to believe.
There’s nothing like the bond between two friends regardless of the species! 🙂
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10 Of The “Most Loyal” Dog Breeds On The Planet
Giving love and support to humans is something that some dogs do better than others.
While many dogs love everyone they meet and are willing to take treats or belly rubs from anyone, the pups we found are just the opposite.
These 10 dogs are some of the most loyal breeds on the planet. They are rock steady in their loyalty to their owner no matter what.
1) Akita
When the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists loyalty to describe the temperament of the Akita, you know they mean business. The beautiful double-coated working dog of Japanese ancestry is considered hardwired in protecting those she loves. They should be socialized with other dogs and people from the time they are puppies. Their silly, fun, but dignified personalities round out the loyal Akita.
Source: NicoMonaco/Flickr
2) Boxer
This working dog is smart, full of energy, and oh so loyal to their family. They get along great with kids and have an innate instinct to protect their pack. He’s a watchdog with a heart of gold who oozes dedication to his owner.
Source: Pierre Pocs Photography/Flickr
3) Skye Terrier
Known as the “small dog with the big ears,” this adorable breed hails from the Scottish Isle of Skye, hence the name. Whether you live in the city or the country, this small dog with a big personality is steadfast in snuggling, playtime, and remaining loyal to his owners.
Source: WaketheSun/Flickr
4) Beagle
This merry hound is friendly, curious and incredibly loyal. While he doesn’t mind the occasional couch potato time, this spunky pooch is energetic and merry. A fun fact about this hound: the breed standard is for 13 inches and under and another in the 13-15 inch category. No matter how you size him, these adorable dogs just want to cling to you.
Source: Simon Hameau/Flickr
5) Shar-Pei
This wrinkly non-sporting breed is standoffish to strangers but very loyal to his owner. His ancient Chinese roots are part of the charm of the Shar-Pei. Regal, strong, and smart, if you want a BFF for life, this loose-skinned pooch may be the right choice for you.
Source: Alessandro Persano/Flickr
