Working Dogs

Every November 11, our nation honors the brave men and women who went to war to defend our country. The DogWatch team joins in this salute, and thanks all veterans for their courageous service. With so many heroes to praise, we turn our attention to the subject we know best: dogs. Here are the stories of five of these heroic military working dogs, whose bravery, dedication and strength are an inspiration to us all. Read post »

Maria Goodavage (Photo Credit: Laura Altair Hanson)

On the eve of the 2016 Presidential election, DogWatch got the opportunity to speak with best-selling author Maria Goodavage about her new book Secret Service Dogs: The Heroes Who Protect the President of the United States. After chronicling the world of military working dogs in Soldier Dogs and Top Dog: The Story of Marine Hero Lucca, Goodavage focuses her new book on the relatively unknown lives of the dogs and handlers who spend the days patrolling the White House lawn, searching for explosives at campaign events and sniffing passersby along Pennsylvania Avenue. Regardless of who wins today’s Presidential election, these dogs will be there, protecting and serving our nation with pride and dedication. We asked Goodavage about her research, some of the remarkable dogs she profiles in her book, and her own new puppy with a touching connection to one of the many working dogs and handlers she’s met along the way. Read post »