We all know that dogs are more than just man’s best friend; sometimes, they play a unique role, like being the witness at your wedding.
That was precisely the case for a veteran and his cherished service dog from the military. Their bond was so strong that on his wedding day, he wanted to involve his dog in a special way.
Justin Lansford, a United States Army veteran from Silver Spring, Maryland, had a life-changing experience while serving as a paratrooper in Afghanistan in 2012 when he was injured in an explosive incident.
“We hit an explosive and my truck flipped completely,” Justin shared with ABC News. “I had bilaterally torn thigh bones which led to the amputation of my left leg.”
During his recovery in the hospital, Justin received support that would transform his life. An organization called Warrior Canine Connections matched injured military personnel with service dogs, and Justin was paired with a golden retriever named Gabe.
Gabe played a crucial role in assisting Justin in adapting after the loss of his leg.
“The less I rely on my wheelchair, the more I appreciate his help with small tasks, and the more he is there for me,” Justin explained. “It’s very comforting to know that.”
“He assists me from one task to another. I can use him as a stable surface to lean on when moving from one surface to another. If I fall, he walks beside me, and I can use him to help myself up from the ground.”
However, Gabe offered more than just physical assistance; he quickly became a source of emotional support and companionship.
“From the very beginning, we formed a strong bond,” Justin told the New York Daily News. “He is there for me every moment of the day, every day.”
Gabe not only had a significant impact on Justin but also on Justin’s old friend Carol, who witnessed the deep connection they shared.
“You have to ensure a service dog is always happy, and they will always love the person they are with,” Carol shared with Buzzfeed. “The second time Justin entered the room where they met, Gabe was wagging, crying, and rolling on the floor.”
When Justin and Carol tied the knot in 2015, it was only fitting for Gabe to be part of the celebration.
While some couples may have their dogs participate as ring bearers or guests, Justin wanted his beloved dog right by his side on their special day and granted him an honorary position: the witness.
“He accompanies me everywhere,” Justin expressed to the Daily News. “He is there to lift me up emotionally when I need it. Why should the wedding be any different?”
The bride wholeheartedly supported Justin’s unique choice.
“Justin and Gabe are inseparable and our wedding was no exception,” Carol stated. “He is a significant part of our lives and deserves to share this moment with us.”
“It was truly special to have him by my side,” Justin remarked.
“I believe there wasn’t a single dry eye in the room. Everyone let out an ‘aww’ throughout the entire wedding.”
Your wedding day is a momentous occasion, a time when you want to be surrounded by those who have supported you the most.
Having Gabe at the center of their big day seemed only natural.
This heartwarming story exemplifies the profound bond we can have with animals. Sometimes, they transcend being pets and become our dearest companions.
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