Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. Erin Guthrie was stationed in Kosovo when she ran into an outcast stray dog.
The raggedy furball wasn’t welcome into the local canine packs, and this just broke Erin’s heart.
She named the dog, Meeka, which is a play on the native word “miqësi” (which means “friendship”), and became his sole caretaker during her deployment.
Source: @jennamdeangelis/Twitter
Over the next 8 months, the timid Meeka blossomed into a faithful companion who shielded Erin during dark times with his love.
So when it was time for the soldier to return to New York, she was devastated to leave her best friend behind. Meeka was alone and scared once again, but Erin had no idea how to fix this situation.
Back at home, Erin decided to adopt a dog from the local shelter, but her heart rebelled against this idea – there was no way she could get Meeka out of her mind.
That’s when she came across “Paws of War”, a unique organization dedicated to reuniting soldiers separated from their dogs.
Source: CBS New York/YouTube
The organization assessed Erin and Meeka’s case and soon launched a fundraiser called “War Torn Pups”. They raised $6,000 to fly Meeka to the United States.
After months of hurdles and paperwork struggles amidst the pandemic, Meeka was finally cleared to be transported to his human!
Source: CBS New York/YouTube
The video below captures the heart-stopping reunion between an emotional Erin and Meeka, and it’s one of the few blissful things we have seen in recent times.
With so many cruel things happening in the world, the unshakeable bond forged between a soldier and a dog in a foreign land is truly a symbol of hope!
Click the video below to watch the incredible reunion between Erin and Meeka.
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10 of the Smartest Dogs in the World:
A friend of mine has a beautiful Dalmatian. Friendly, energetic and lovable, she was a perfect family pet… but she wasn’t the smartest pooch on the planet. See, she knew how to go through the pet door out into the garden, but she had no clue how to get back inside. It never occurred to her that the flap could swing both ways. So she would sit outside and howl until my friend would open the door.
Repeated demonstrations of the dual movement of the flap had no effect; it just did not compute. The dog breeds on this list, however, probably don’t have that problem. They’re widely considered to be among the cleverest canines in the world. Take a look and see if you agree.
1. German Shepherd
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No surprise here. German Shepherds are the world’s best police dogs, military dogs, and some have even been movie stars (remember Rin Tin Tin?). Brave, loyal, smart and strong, they’re the total package.
2. Beagle
Also on the list of the best family-friendly dogs in the world, the Beagle has an incredible nose that lets them sniff out just about anything. Born detectives, they’re not the most trainable pets, but they are smart. And hey, nobody ever accused Snoopy of being dumb.
3. Golden Retriever
A popular choice for assistance dogs for their easy temperament, natural intelligence and loyalty, Golden Retrievers are natural guides and also serve as great rescue dogs. Active and fun to be around, they’re wonderful family pets.
4. Border Collie
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Border Collies are considered by many to be the geniuses of the dog world. Expert herders, laser-focused (they’re known for their intense stare), and incredibly agile to boot, they’re workaholics and excellent athletes. Just don’t expect to keep one cooped up in an apartment.
5. Poodle
Did you know poodles were originally hunting dogs? They respond very well to training and are quick to learn tricks. So don’t let the fluffy looks and styled mane fool you! These dogs are among the smart canines around. Plus, they’re among the best dogs in the world for those who suffer allergies.
6. Belgian Malinois
A terrific military dog, the Malinois is a natural herder, tracker and worker. Smart, trainable and protective, these dogs require an owner who knows what he or she is doing. In addition to the military, Malinois are often recruited as guard dogs and police dogs as well.
7. Papillon
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Named for their butterfly-shaped ears, papillons are small, cute and pretty smart. They’re considered the smartest of the toy dog breed, with intelligence levels comparable to the über-smart border collie. They’re alert and focused pets, and loyal and lovable: an ideal friend for he family.
8. Doberman
Sadly, Dobermans are known more for their ferocity than their smarts, but these are considered among the most intelligent dogs in the world, as well as one of the most effective guard dogs around. They’re outstanding students known to be affectionate and obedient.
9. Bloodhound
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Don’t let the wrinkles and dopey expression fool you! Bloodhounds have the keenest of noses, and are often used for trailing (so much so that their evidence can be used in court against you!). These are loving but strong-willed dogs, and are often used on search and rescue missions.
10. Australian Cattle Dog
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You need a smart, determined and energetic dog to control unruly cows. And that’s just what the Australian Cattle Dog, or ACD, does. They’re intelligent enough to herd these much larger creatures, and while they need their independence and wide open spaces, they’re eager workers who know how to get the job done.
Did we miss your brainy dog on this list? If so, write in and let us know about it!
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