War Valentine to Remember

U.S. Soldiers’ Rescued Dog Arrives at Dulles Airport

WASHINGTON, DC – In a Valentine’s Day moment to remember, Charlie, a black-and-white dog who was taken in by a company of soldiers stationed near Baghdad, will take his first steps on American soil escorted by SPCA International’s Terri Crisp straight from Baghdad. I Love Dogs spokesperson, Deborah Harpur, will also be welcoming Charlie to his new home.

Charlie’s journey to a safe home in the United States is thanks to SPCA International’s Operation Baghdad Pups program – a special initiative set up to provide medical care, clearance and transport of soldiers’ companion animals out of the war zone. Operation Baghdad Pups is proudly sponsored by I Love Dogs, Inc.

Charlie was a tiny, shivering and malnourished puppy when he was rescued from the Iraq streets by members of Charlie Company. The soldiers who saved him, gave him water and portions of their own MREs, hoping they could save this little life. As the pup grew stronger, he became a constant companion and source of comfort to the company’s brave troops.

On Valentine’s Day, Charlie, who has become the unofficial mascot of Charlie Company, and a four-legged morale booster for the troops, will be welcomed home as an American pup. It is the ultimate love story between a man and his dog.

Charlie is the first of many U.S. soldiers’ companion animals to be rescued from the war zone and the inspiration for the SPCA Int’l Operation Baghdad Pups program.

WHEN: Thursday, February 14, 2008 at 8:30 AM EST

WHERE: Washington Dulles International Airport, Dulles, Virginia.

i Love Dogs, Inc.

i Love Dogs, Inc.’s three websites – ilovedogs.com, ilovedogfriendly.com and findavet.us – provide information and up-to-the-minute news to keep pet parents aware of all things dog. A premium canine vitamins and lifestyle company, i Love Dogs is famous for its line of diamond dog collars. The name says it all — at i Love Dogs, we are committed to the health and happiness of our canine companions.