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Military Dogs in Iraq get gifts in honor of July 4th

To mark the July 4th Independence Day holiday, Happy Tails Dog Spa recently sought donated supplies to assist dogs that are supporting the U.S. military effort to bring democracy to Iraq.

Happy Tails was in e-mail contact with Master Sgt. Chris Burgess before the holiday. Sgt. Burgess, who is the Operations Chief for the 2nd Military Police Battalion at Camp Fallujah, in Iraq talked with the Kennel Master and a few of the dog handlers at the request of Happy Tails and put together a wish list.

According to Master Sgt. Burgess, "The military dogs needed lip balm for their noses, as well as flying discs and chew toys without small detachable pieces." He added that the dogs also always love biscuits and large, knotted ropes to play with.

To Happy Tails, Sgt. Burgess sent this message of gratitude: "Thank you for all the support. I know the handlers and the dogs will appreciate it very much." Burgess also wrote that "In the future the dog handlers assigned to the K-9 unit would like sunflower seeds, sugarless gum, energy drinks, goldfish crackers, Slim Jims and beef jerky."

Amy Nichols, president and CEO of "Happy to be Here", the franchise company of Happy Tails Dog Spa, said a donation box was placed in the front lobby of the dog spa and a sign invited patrons to donate. Before sending off the supplies to the Middle East, Ms. Nichols stated "I knew our customers would be extremely generous and would help support these military dogs and our other troops at a time of war when this country is celebrating its independence. I am pleased that Happy Tails Dog Spa can play a role."