Quotes
“In this detailed account, former USA Today reporter Goodavage takes readers behind the scenes to learn how these courageous canines are identified, trained, and cared for in the field…Stories of spooked pups aboard battle-bound Hueys and dogs in the line of fire reveal surprisingly human-like response to war, and posit these military mutts as admirable—and capable—soldiers.” Publishers Weekly
“Soldier Dogs is a fascinating book about the valiant things that military dogs do as told through the words of the soldiers who fight beside them. It also shows you how military service dogs are created, told through the words of the trainers and scientists who know the process. It is written in an easy and entertaining style and will acquaint you with dozens of canine heroes ranging from Stubby, who fought in WWI, to Cairo, who was a member of the raiding party that took down Osama Bin Laden. It is a great read for anyone who appreciates dogs and heroes.” Stanley Coren, author of The Intelligence of Dogs
“Popular dog blogger Goodavage covers the training, duties, retirement, and adoption of military dogs while explaining that these animals live for their missions. Lots of interest in this subject, not least because the Navy SEAL team that raided Osama bin Laden’s compound last May got help from Cairo, a Belgian Malinois.” Library Journal
“Writer Goodavage profiles an indispensible warrior of the four-legged variety…The author provides inspiring personal stories of the many canine allies (and their handlers) who have dramatically enhanced military command units and examines how this indelible human-canine bond often transcends the atrocities of wartime violence. A well-deserved salute to the military’s ‘paws-on-the-ground heroes.’” Kirkus Reviews
“A moving portrait of the loyal, courageous, furry warriors who truly are enlisted Man's Best Friend.” People magazine
“A fascinating window into a different kind of military life.” Booklist
“[A] highly recommended book if you have the slightest interest in military working dogs. A must read—I say again must read—book if you have ever served anywhere they've had paws on the ground. I’m not sure who to thank more...Maria Goodavage for her book or Blek, Lucy, Buck, Ajax, Davy, Tina, Patrick, Fenji, Rex, Cinte, Lex, Ben, Lars, Duc, and the other dogs and their handlers for helping her write it..” David Reeder, Military.com
“Goodavage does a great job of chronicling the use of dogs in the military.” PurePolitics.com