Not long ago, Evan Nolte, a soldier stationed locally in Washington state, found a beautiful German shepherd through the Northwest German shepherd Rescue. Evan fell in love with the beautiful dog and promptly adopted him.

However, there were bigger things in store for this rescued shepherd than just being a fabulous pet and companion. Held (German for Hero) is now working with the U.S. Army and US Airforce Military working dog handlers, as well as US Army Veterinary reservists. Held provides the soldiers with hands on emergency medical experience at the veterinary treatment facility. Held has even allowed a select few of the the trainees to learn to insert IV catheters. Evan reports that Held is always mild-mannered and patient with the sometimes fumbling hands that are learning life-saving skills.

Working mililtary dogs save countless soldiers' lives and Held is helping the soldiers learn how to save the lives of these dogs who put their lives on the line every day that they are in the field.

Evan reports that Held seems to know that this is his job and it is work that holds a purpose for him. Anyone who has ever owned a working line dog realizes that they live for their job. This is truly a remarkable and beautiful ending for a dog that had ended up in rescue. I've said it many, many times before; there are amazing dogs out in our rescues and shelters right now. All that is needed is a person to find them and give them the chance that they need; the chance to have a life and return the love that they so desperately long to share.

Please visit the Northwest German Shepherd Rescue to see the other wonderful German shepherds that are currently up for adoption or to learn how you can help to sponsor or foster a rescue dog.

http://www.examiner.com/x-2111-Tacoma-Dogs-Examiner~y2009m3d16-Rescued-German-shepherd-now-assisting-soldiers