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There's a reason why the dog has been declared man's best friend. Loyal and strong, the dog has been there to protect, serve and rescue man for thousands of years. Dogs have continued to serve man as heroes and saviors throughout time, especially in war.

Napoleon deployed dogs to his reserves, the Lydians had whole battalions of loyal fighting dogs, while the Romans always sent at least one dog out with every legion. And many dogs got bravery awards for it.

During World War, dogs were used to send messages and sniff out bombs and enemy traps. One of the most infamous war dogs of the First World War was Rags, a Cairn terrier and mascot for the 1st Infantry Division.

During the Vietnam War, over 4000 dogs were recruited as MWDs (Military Working Dogs) to serve and protect U.S. troops aiding in sniffing out unknown tunnels, tracking enemy paths, carrying supplies, and conducting sentry duties to protect base camps.

Today, our police forces and rescue services continue to use K-9 unit dogs to sniff out drugs, find missing persons, and rescue individuals.

During the horrific crisis of 9/11 in New York City, hundreds of Search and Rescue Unit dogs saved hundreds of lives, sniffing out survivors from the rubble and also finding remains to bring closure to grieving families.

In honor of your doggie hero, remember to celebrate National Dog Day on August 26th and give thanks for the dogs that have saved our lives, been our companions, and showed us undying love and devotion.