Whilst serving in Afghanistan, Layka was shot four times at point-blank range. Although she managed to subdue the shooter and protect her team, Layka required seven hours of surgery and lost one of her front legs after the struggle.
Her handler, Staff Sergeant Julian McDonald fought hard to adopt Layka into his loving home to reward her bravery, despite the fact many said she was too aggressive to be around his family, particularly his one-year-old son. However, it beam clear almost immediately that Layka was able to adapt to any surrounding and soon showed just how much love she was capable of.
Layka is just one example of the war dogs that serve in combat everyday, you can read more stories about combat canines and their handlers on National Geographic.
Soldier Adopts Dog That Saved His Life | National Geographic
Featured photo credit: Soldier Adopts Dog That Saved His Life | National Geographic via youtube.com
