While Staff Sgt. Edwin Caba served in Afghanistan, a litter of puppies born on his base brought a sense of much needed joy and relief to the soldiers. Many didn't want to part with the dogs once their tour ended. Enter Nowzad Dogs. Since 2007, the nonprofit has reunited more than 700 soldiers with the animals they cared for on duty. As the only official animal shelter in the country, it also helps find homes for abandoned animals in Afghanistan. Founder Pen Farthing, a former Royal Marine sergeant, named the organization after Nowzad - a dog that adopted Farthing, and followed him back to base after he broke up a dogfight. The dog had such an effect on Farthing that he found a way to take her home. In doing so, he realized he wanted to help others do the same.

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  • Kristin Pedemonti

    Yes to healing of animals and the kindness we can extend human to animal and animal to human. A wonderful story, thank you for sharing and thanks to Staff Sgt Caba for his heart!

  • Annie Jayaraj

    Joy! I have four rescued dogs at home and two cats. Now one of the cats gave birth to three kittens.... animals need love. What joy both the man and the dogs would have felt when they were reunited.... no words can express that

  • Wanda

    Selflessness from those who are already making sacrifices. This gives them a purpose and helps them stay focused. Love it.

  • Kathy

    Excellent point, Steve. When one considers that dogs and cats are eaten in other coubtries such as China, even meat-eaters have an automatic feeling of revulsion. Why? Because we have domesticated them? Other animals can be domesticated, too, because they are sentient beings, capable of feeling.

  • Steve

    Beautiful!!! Question: Is it possible to be compassionate towards animals and still eat meat and fish?.....just a general enquiry!

  • karen

    Wow, with all that is going on these men take the time to help a helpless dog or cat. I am amazed and inspired I hope that this shelter continues to thrive and all the abandoned dogs and cats find comfort and peace. God Bless

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  • To learn more about Nowzad and how to get involved, visit their website.
  • Read about the remarkable work of Lawrence Anthony, a conservationist who rescued the Baghdad Zoo after the American invasion of Iraq in 2003.
  • Pay attention to the life forms around you and do what you can to support them. Visit your local animal shelter and explore ways you can volunteer.

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