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MADISON, Ala. (WHNT) - We all know the saying that a dog is a man's best friend but for veterans, they are more than just best friends. Many veterans who have fought for our freedom greatly rely on their dogs when they return from deployment.

Caleb Lovelace served seven months in Iraq and faced many challenges once he returned. "It's a real hard transition and there was a time where a couple of years I went through anxiety and depression and all kinds of different things that veterans go through, just a lost feeling," said Lovelace. He would find himself not wanting to be around people, just by himself.

Things finally turned around once he found Sophie, his four-legged family member. "I mean she knew when I was upset. She knew when I was anxious. She knew when I felt depressed. She just knew and she got me through a lot of hard times," he shared. She would comfort him and would always be there for him.

"I believe that that connection is what veterans need. I think they need to be heard and they need to be listened to. I don't think they always need to be told what to do -- I just think they need someone to listen to them," Lovelace explained.

On New Year's Eve, Caleb let Sophie outside, near Balch and Browns Ferry Roads in Madison. A few minutes later when he went to let her back inside she was nowhere to be found. Caleb has desperately searched for Sophie for several days now. He says he needs her back and that she bring so much joy into his life. "It's weird to say that a dog would do that for you but it's true, she really did," he said.

Caleb and his family have posted a picture of Sophie to Facebook and have seen incredible response from people who want to help.

Supporters have even posted Sophie's information and picture on two electronic billboards in Madison. You can see them at Highway 20 and Wall Triana and Highway 72 and Hughes Road.

If you have any information on Sophie or think you have seen her, please call (256) 722-7190.

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