Faith, is an eleven year old Labrador-chow cross who is a favorite at hospitals and army bases. She is a sight to watch as she ‘marches’ around using her hind legs while clothed in a military jacket.

Jude Stringfellow her owner, says that Faith is an inspiration to the young men. It’s always emotional for her as she watches them respond to Faith. Faith shows that a lot can be achieved even against the odds and she loves when Faith makes the soldiers smile.

Faith was born with one of her front legs missing while the other had to be amputated because it was severely deformed. She got rejected by the mother but Ms. Stringfellow’s son, Reuben, adopted the tiny animal and took great care of it.

They carried the puppy for the first few months but eventually coached her and she learned how to walk. They used peanut butter on a spoon as lure. Faith learned how to balance using her hind legs and to jump so as to move forward. The puppy now walks on its own and moves quickly with confidence. He has become quite a sensation appearing regularly on most U.S talk shows and various newspapers. A book is being published about her entitled ‘With a Little Faith’.

Ms Stringfellow runs a website that is devoted to her dog. She receives hundreds of letters and emails from fans each day. Her son’s service in Iraq inspired her decision to take Faith to hospitals with veterans. She gave up her teaching post so as to take Faith around the world. Her aim is to let people realize that one can possess a perfect soul even with out a perfect body.

During these visits, Faith walks around laughing and barking. She is excited to see the veterans.

‘There is a lot of crying, pointing and surprise. From those who have lost friends or limbs, there can be silence. Some will shake my hand and thank me; some will pat her on the head. There is a lot of quiet, heartfelt, really deep emotion.’ Ms Stringfellow said.
[source:www.faiththedog.info]