Dog Honored With Purple Heart Never Leaves His Soldier's Side

A military dog and his handler are recovering at Walter Reed Medical Center after sustaining injuries from an explosion in Afghanistan.

Rocky and his handler, Fort Hood Soldier Andrew Brown, are doing well after an IED blast went off in a building they were searching.

Rocky received a purple heart for his service, and is happily cuddling up with Brown at the hospital.

"One of our Military Working Dogs, Rocky, and his handler were injured this week during operations in Afghanistan," the 89th Military Police Brigade wrote on Facebook on December 9. "Rocky and his handler are staying in the same room right now as they are receiving treatment for their injuries. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they recover during the holiday season."

The two photos of the pair have gone viral, pulling at the heartstrings of animal lovers all over the world. Many have shared their emotions on Facebook.

"Outstanding news. Total respect for all military," wrote a woman from Western Australia. "Thank you for being away from your family and friends this Christmas so that I and many others may be with ours in relative safety. Thank you all for your service."

"This is a wonderful update," the U.S. Army Reserve commented. "We are truly thankful for your service!"

Learn how you can get involved to help retired military dogs here.