FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
Many of the military working dogs employed by the U.S. Army have experienced multiple deployments throughout the world, and some have paid the ultimate sacrifice while dutifully conducting their missions.
After years of faithful service - usually upwards of 10 years - some MWDs have a chance to take off their vests and put on a collar as a family pet.
On Sept. 9, Duuk (pronounced "Duke") became one such pet. Duuk, an 11-year-old explosives detection dog, served for the past eight years and was previously assigned to the 3rd Military Police Detachment at Fort Eustis.
Following years of faithful service including four deployments to Iraq, numerous demonstrations at various community events, law enforcement support to the installation and worldwide missions, Duuk was submitted to the MWD adoption program.
The program began in November 2000 when then-President Bill Clinton signed a bill called "Robby's Law," which allowed for the adoption of MWDs that are declared "excess" by the military and are deemed adoptable. Since then, families and prior handlers across the nation have adopted these warriors and brought them home to enjoy their retirement in the comfort and love of a home.
Duuk, as with other MWDs, went through a vetting process conducted by the 37th Training Wing at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. The dogs eligible for adoption are usually young dogs who did not meet the training requirements and have little to no training, or older dogs who are medically incapable to perform military duty. Duuk has minor hip problems, which is not surprising given his record, said U.S. Army Sgt John Nolan, 3rd MP Det. dog handler.
"Duuk has been with the [3rd MP Det.] since the very beginning of the unit," said Nolan. "He is a gentle pup, and he definitely deserves a few years of rest after all of his hard work."
Andrew Lou, Newport News Police Department detective, adopted Duuk after hearing his story.
"My wife and I have been looking for a dog for quite some time," said Lou. "When we saw a [MWD] up for adoption, I called her and told her I found one."
Lou said he heard about Duuk and immediately looked into the adoption process to give the dog the rest he deserves.
"Being in the NNPD, I have seen a number of working dogs and I know how much they train and endure in their line of duty," said Lou. "Duuk, and every other dog like him, have more than earned a retirement, and I know he will be a great companion to my family."