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ATLANTA — A service dog named Bruno is missing in southwest Atlanta, prompting an urgent plea from his owner, who is a veteran.
The one-and-a-half-year-old standard poodle, known for his brown curly hair, was last seen late Sunday night after getting spooked by other dogs. Bruno ran off along Peyton Road in the Peyton Forest neighborhood.
Kerrie Porter had taken Bruno out around midnight — later than usual, as she typically walks him around 10 p.m.
Despite the late hour, she said Bruno was acting as if he really needed to go out. He was wearing a red service vest and a blue collar with a tag that included her contact information.
“I waited an entire year to receive him from the Top Dogg K9 Foundation,” Porter said.
“We were paired just two weeks ago and have only been through one training session together. He’s already made such a big difference in our lives and our children. This has been devastating,” she said.
Porter, who served for 10 years in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, describes Bruno as an essential part of her support system as a mother and wife.
“He helps me function daily, and I need his support,” she said.
Sheila Rashad, executive director of the Top Dogg K9 Foundation, echoed Porter’s concerns.
“We just started the service dog training with Bruno and Kerrie this past Saturday. It’s heartbreaking. They’ve already formed an invaluable bond,” she said.
“Just recently, Kerrie was taking a nap when Bruno woke her up because her blood pressure had risen,” Rashad explained.
The search for Bruno is focused around Peyton Road SW in Atlanta. Porter and the community are asking anyone who spots him to approach calmly.
“He’s a sweet, loving dog. Please kneel down. He shouldn’t be shy, and he’s gentle with no aggression,” Porter added.
Bruno is expected to still be wearing his red service vest.
The Top Dogg K9 Foundation, founded by Blake and Sheila Rashad in 2011, aims to support veterans through trained service dogs. Blake, a U.S. Army veteran and K-9 dog trainer, started the organization after experiencing the positive impact of having a trained dog during his own struggles with anxiety and depression.
As the community rallies to find Bruno, Porter remains hopeful.
“He’s made all the difference in our lives, and I ask that if anyone finds him, please return him,” she said.