Boonie Tails

By Kevin Keilbach, father of co-founders Aria and Grace

Boonie Beginnings: Remembering All Who Served

Not sure about you, but I love a hero—especially real heroes, especially war heroes.

As we recently celebrated Veteran’s Day, it feels fitting to reflect on the courage and resilience of those who served.

One of the most powerful books I’ve read, Flags of Our Fathers by James Bradley and Ron Powers, tells the graphic and inspiring story of six American soldiers who hoisted the flag on Iwo Jima during World War II. Their act, immortalized in one of the most iconic photographs in U.S. history, represents both the brutal reality of war and the complex legacy of heroism and sacrifice. Each of these men came from vastly different backgrounds, yet their fates converged in one moment that became a symbol of unity, strength, and sacrifice.

The Stars and Stripes were raised on Iwo Jima on February 23, 1945. Just nine months earlier, however, another battle raged a mere 600 miles away—and were it not for that battle, there would be no need for this newsletter and there would be no need for Boonie Babies’ rescue, rehab, and relocation efforts.

The Battle of Saipan, you see, was when highly trained U.S. military dogs were introduced to the island—the heroic ancestors of today’s intelligent and resourceful boonie dogs. These amazing war dogs of eight decades ago sniffed out land mines, assisted with body recovery, and helped allied troops navigate through the impossibly thick Saipan jungle.

Today, the island’s Boonie dogs carry the legacy of these courageous animals. Many of these dogs are direct descendants of the daring military dogs that served in Saipan, a lineage that connects them to a heroic chapter in our nation’s history. They remind us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, whether on two legs or four.

Our nation’s veterans are heroes, as are those who care for them and honor their legacy. And those who bring compassion and resources to today’s Boonie dogs—descendants of the courageous military dogs of Saipan—are heroes, too. In every generation, heroes step forward, and their legacy lives on through those who remember and care for them.

I don’t know about you, but I love a hero – especially real heroes, like the ones behind Boonie Babies.

Boonie Beats

Did you know that listening to music can be beneficial for dogs and used as a tool to make training more enjoyable for both humans and dogs alike? Try putting on some tunes during your next crate training session, when leaving the house to help with separation anxiety, or during a stressful situation such as a thunder storm!

Whether we are hanging out on the beach, training, taking the dogs on an adventure, or walking around the yard picking up endless amounts of poop, you can always find us singing along to something. Check out the dogs’ new favorite song, “Where Do I Go” by Boots and Cats. Although the dogs are starting a petition to rename the group “Boots and Boonies,” they still enjoy listening to the song.

This Week On Saipan…

In collaboration with Saipan Humane and The Parker Project, Boonie Babies has been hard at work assisting with TNR (trap, neuter, release) efforts as yet another spay and neuter clinic is hosted!

Thank’s to the Parker Project’s time, resources, and dedication, community members have had access to low-cost and even free spay/neuter surgeries for their animals. In addition to pets, Boonie Babies was invited to collect—or as Aria would say, “snatch”—as many strays as possible and bring them in for surgery. TNR is the first step in population control and we are thrilled to be a part of making that happen.

Boonie of the Week

Another typhoon followed in 2018, leaving many of these animals in limbo. Fortunately, some were rescued—the lion and tiger, for instance, found sanctuary in Colorado. Others, including several large parrots, were re-homed locally.

One of these parrots, Blueberry, and his mate were transferred to a local hotel. Sadly, like many parrots in captivity, Blueberry ended up in a situation where he was unintentionally neglected. Macaws need specific care, from diet to socialization, specialized perches, and proper housing—none of which Blueberry received. His partner passed away years ago, leaving him alone in a rusty, inadequate cage and on a poor diet.

In April, Lauren noticed Blueberry while attending yoga at the hotel. It was clear he needed help, and after persistent efforts, she finally brought him home a few days ago. Blueberry is incredibly malnourished, and his muscles are severely atrophied. We hope his previous conditions haven’t caused permanent damage, but regardless, Lauren and her family will give him all the love and care he deserves for however long he’s with them.

For more Blueberry (and other awesome Boonie) content, check out Lauren’s Instagram, Life With Boonies.

Boonie Tails is free to read. But if you liked this post, support Boonie Babies and this newsletter by pledging a monthly or annual donation. Thank you for reading and we’ll see you next week!