Joy is a 5 year old German Shepherd Military Working Dog previously stationed at Beale Air Force Base in Marysville, CA.
She was deployed with her handler in 2004 where she performed explosives detection work. Joy was diagnosed with Hip Dysplasia in early 2006,resulting in her being released from military service.. Hip Dysplasia is a condition that prevents Joy from performing her patrol duties. Joy is currently on medications to control inflammation and the pain of arthritis that has formed in her hips.
Joy will benefit greatly from a surgical procedure used to reconstruct hip joints. With this procedure, Joy is expected to be able to enjoy full range of activity. Joy is currently enjoying her retirement and resides with her
last K-9 handler as a privately owned pet.(Joy's Handler is currently deployed again)
Joy's surgery and incidental expenses will amount to approximate $2,000.00
I have spoken with the Veterinarain who will perform Joy's surgery's and have assured her Handler that her surgery costs will be paid in full by Military Mascots so Joy can enjoy a pain free retirement with his family.
Joy's veterinary Appointment for additional
X-rays and follow up evaulation is on 7 December.

A note from Joy's former Kennel Master.
I would like to say "Thank You" as Joys former Kennel Master I know just how sweet she is. Her time in the Military was cut short by her health problems yet her temperament made her the perfect candidate for adoption. Her handler jumped all over the opportunity to adopt her. This will give her a second lease on life.
A note from Joy's Handler/Owner:
I want to give you my thanks for all the work and dedication you are giving to Joy. It means more than I can say and express in an email. Joy was my partner for almost 2 and a half years, and my constant companion
while we were deployed to Iraq. Without her I probably would have gone crazy. As I like to tell people, she was my saving grace in Iraq. I know there is not much I can do to help everything from my current locale, but I want everyone to know how appreciative I am of what you are doing. I wish could be by her side during her surgery and after to help in her recovery. All I can do is leave her in yours and my mothers caring and capable hands. Again, thank you from the bottom of my heart.
If you would like to contribute to Joy's surgery funds, please visit the donation page and mention Joy's name.
THANK YOU,
Bonnie