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Animal rights advocates in the United States say the country not only needs to take care of its veterans but also the military dogs that have risked their lives on the battlefield. Some members of Congress have also joined the call to honor America's canine heroes. At an event on Capitol Hill organized by the American Humane Association, Democratic congressman Henry Cuellar said it is important to strengthen the bond between soldiers and military dogs. "When you have the connection between a soldier and one of the dogs he has been with that actually has saved lives, it's making sure, it's not only when they are in the battle ground, but when they come back [we] give them the opportunity if they want to adopt that particular dog," said Cuellar. A majority in Congress wants retiring military dogs returned to US soil and reunited with their former handlers. So does the American Humane Association, an animal welfare group. "These guys right here are life-saving and life-changing. So for somebody who abuses animals, you are stopping somebody from changing their lives," said Robin Ganzert, from the American Humane Society. Every year, the American Humane Association selects military dogs, law enforcement dogs, rescue dogs and others for their annual Hero Dog awards. The Military Dog of the Year, a German shepherd named Sgt. Rambo, served as an explosive detection dog with the Marine Corps and had a front leg amputated. Now he is the mascot of Gizmo’s Gift, a non-profit organization, and serves as an ambassador for K-9 members of the Armed Forces. | 
