The current stance on dogs in the military is that they are "excess equipment" -- they are considered property of the United States military, rather than living soldiers.

After one dog, Layka, risked her life to save Staff Sergeant Julian McDonald and his squad -- which resulted in Layka taking gunfire and losing a limb -- Staff Sgt. McDonald had no choice but to fight for her life in return.

Although many people thought that Layka would be too aggressive, McDonald fought to adopt her, and she is now an integral part of his family. He still lets her find bombs and perform bite exercises to "satisfy her curiosity" and relieve stress, but at home Layka has adapted into just another gentle family dog.

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