“Everyone deserves a second chance—just like me, It is a true relief and blessing to have him.”

These are the words of Scott MacKenzie, a twenty three year old retired Marine corporal.  MacKenzie was injured by a roadside bomb while on patrol in Iraq. His jaw was fractured and he has hearing loss, shrapnel wounds and a traumatic brain injury. He retired from the military with 90 percent disability.

In an article in August, MacKenzie said he’d like “a little wiener dog” after he left the military.  Since then, offers of dachshunds have been pouring in.  MacKenzie chose a dog from the Dachshund Rescue of North America.

Scott named his little dachshund “Itchy.”  The two connected instantly.   Scott, who has had trouble sleeping, is hoping that Itchy will comfort him with his quiet, alert presence.

I really wish I had a picture of the two of them.  This story really struck me in a strange way.  I guess it reminded me of what good company dogs are in rough times.  A relationship with a dog can transform a person’s entire life, heal the unspeakable wounds.

Soldiers and dogs seem like a great match.