All three retired military dogs, "Pureun," "Yeomto," and "Kiwi," which Gyeonggi Province brought to Banryo Maru Yeoju from the Army Military Dog Training Center last month, have found new families.
Gyeonggi Province is holding a retirement military dog adoption celebration at Companion Maru Yeoju. Provided by Gyeonggi Province
On March 3, Gyeonggi Province held a celebration ceremony attended by "Yeomto," "Kiwi," their adoptive families, and other related parties. During the event, adoption pledges, adoption supplies, and flower bouquets were presented, and commemorative photos were taken. "Pureun" had a family waiting for pre-adoption, so after completing a health check and relocation training, the dog moved to its new home on February 26.
"Yeomto" and "Kiwi" were adopted immediately after adoption promotion began at Banryo Maru Yeoju, as families expressed interest and successfully completed the adoption process. The three retired military dogs started their new lives less than a month after arriving at Banryo Maru Yeoju.
Kiwi’s adopter, Lee Gi-cheol, shared, "I have always been interested in military dogs, and since I am able to care for a large dog, I thought it would be meaningful to provide a comfortable retirement for a service animal. After meeting Yeomto and Kiwi, I found them to be affectionate and energetic-they jump up and lick my hands. I think we will spend a lot of time exercising together."
An official from the Army Military Dog Training Center, upon hearing the news of the swift adoptions at Banryo Maru Yeoju, stated, "We are truly delighted that the retired military dogs, who always long for human companionship, have found new families. I hope more care centers like Banryo Maru Yeoju, where dogs can receive daily attention and eventually be adopted, will be established."
Two other retired military dogs, who were newly brought to Banryo Maru Yeoju on February 26, also attended the celebration. All of these dogs are former scout dogs that retired after their service and were carefully selected for civilian adoption based on their sociability and suitability as companion animals.
Those interested in adopting or temporarily fostering companion animals, or in volunteer activities, can apply through the Gyeonggi Province Animal Protection and Welfare Platform or the Banryo Maru Yeoju website, or inquire by phone. Gyeonggi Province is also implementing support programs for national service animal adopters, including enrollment in pet insurance and discounts on funeral services.
Kangyoung Lee, Director of the Livestock and Animal Welfare Bureau of Gyeonggi Province, said, "The prompt adoption of retired military dogs demonstrates the growing public interest in national service animals and an increased awareness of animal welfare. Gyeonggi Province will continue to take the lead in fulfilling public roles and advancing companion animal welfare policies."
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