Disabled US Army Veteran Decides That The Best Man At His Wedding Will Be His Service Dog, Gabe
Although dogs are often referred to as a man's best friend, this US Army veteran saw more in his devoted furry pal. All of this came about when he chose his service dog to serve as his best man on his big day. As Dr. Gary Chapman, marriage counselor and author of "The 5 Love Languages," states, "Pets can provide unconditional love and support, enhancing the emotional bonds we share with others."
And as you can already tell, the Golden Retriever happily accepted the position and invitation. This is what it really means when buddies are inseparable!
Gabe, a service dog, and veteran Justin Lansford of Silver Spring, Maryland, originally met way back in 2012. Justin was severely injured while serving overseas, which caused him to lose his leg.
When he returned home, the Warriors Canine Connections group provided him with a dog to help him cope with the situation better. Gabe and Justin have built a unique bond ever since. According to Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, a positive psychology researcher, "The bond between humans and animals can significantly enhance our well-being and resilience."
In addition to being close buddies, Gabe supports his owner in whatever he does. This sweet Golden Retriever is very affectionate and attentive to Justin, doing everything from bringing him his phone to even helping him propose to his fiancée.
Gabe had to participate in the wedding of Justin and Carol when the time arrived. And not just as a regular guest, but also as the best man for the wedding!
More info: Dr. Gary Chapman ```
This US army Veteran chose his loyal furry companion as his best man on his big day
Veteran Justin Lansford and service dog Gabe have first met back in 2012
The vet told the New York Daily News that he and the dog have been joined at the hip since day one.
"He’s there for me all day, every day. He helps me with one thing after the next… If I fall, he’ll come running next to me, and I can use him to push off of to get up off the ground."
This gentle Golden Retriever is extremely affectionate and attentive with Justin
Justin says that whenever he needs an emotional boost, Gabe is definitely there for him, so "why would the wedding be any different?"
When the time came for Justin and his fiancée Carol to tie the knot, Gabe had to be involved
The bride, who is also very close to her husband's service dog, was overjoyed to learn that he would be present on their special day alongside his human.
The bride, who’s also extremely attached to Gabe, was happy to have him around
Justin and Gabe frequently travel together, so the couple's wedding didn't seem like it should be any different. He deserves to be present because he is an important part of our lives.
During the ceremony, Gabe was, as he has always been – extremely calm and gentle
Gabe behaved very well at the ceremony, exactly as he always has: with unwavering calm and gentleness. He barely agreed to pose for a few photos with the wedding guests.
Gabe is undoubtedly more than simply a dog for the Lansford family. In fact, he’s a true companion and friend, and everyone should have someone like Gabe as a friend.
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