Moeller searches for veteran to gift with free purebred puppy

Aug. 23--GREENFIELD -- Normally, Robin Moeller and her husband would sell all of their purebred white shepherd puppies at rates of $500 for males and $575 for females.

But this time, Moeller is gifting a purebred puppy from the latest litter to a veteran as a token of her appreciation of the sacrifice that veteran made.

"I wanted a veteran because you hear all the time that they can't get the help they need, they have to wait for medical services -- you just hear all kinds of things," Moeller said. "So, this is just a small way I can say 'thank you' to one of them."

As clinical director of Self-Awareness treatment services in Creston, Moeller views therapeutic measures as vital for those struggling with something -- whether it be substance abuse, effects of serving in the military or simply a desire for companionship.

While Ghost, the 6-month-old male puppy she is giving to a veteran, is currently not professionally trained, Moeller said Ghost can serve as a companion and form of therapy even without therapy-dog training.

"He's a great companion, he would be easy to train and he's super smart," Moeller said. "He's always happy, and he gets along with all other dogs that we've had him around. He's great with little kids and loves all people."

Tammy Miller of Rockwell purchased a female white shepherd from Moeller and said hers serves as a companion in her family.

"My husband's a veteran, so I think this is wonderful," Miller said. "I know for myself, with anxiety and depression and stuff, (white shepherds) are the best companions. They're smart, and emotionally, you can connect with a German shepherd. They're active enough that they can do things -- they can hike, they can swim, they can do just about anything -- but they're so loyal and that's what a lot of vets like."

Of the recent litter of 10 puppies bred by Moeller and her husband, Roy, at their home in Greenfield, they first gifted Ghost to their daughter. But, as their daughter's husband recently started staying home with their two young children, adding a puppy to the mix was a bit too chaotic for the family.

At that point, Moeller figured she would put out an advertisement to sell Ghost. She knew he would sell lightning fast as all the others have. A few owners have travelled from as far as Minnesota to purchase the Moellers' purebred white shepherds.

But then, the idea of giving Ghost to a veteran came to Moeller's mind.

"I'm so glad they're doing this," Miller said. "I wish more people would because I believe that veterans really can get comfort from one. I know my husband and I do."

Ghost has been neutered and has received all of his puppy and rabies shots. He is a registered purebred by the American Kennel Club. He is currently about 60 pounds but has the potential to reach more than 100 pounds. Ghost's father is 115 pounds.

"I'm just looking for a veteran with the ability to give him a good home and someone who really wants him because he's such a good dog. I want him to be cherished," Moeller said.

Any veteran or anyone who knows a veteran who might be interested in owning Ghost can call Moeller at 712-249-1110.

"I just appreciate what the veterans do," she said. "I can't imagine how hard it is for them and their families. They're out there risking their lives for us. I don't think they get enough credit."

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