What do you think?
Rate this book
No Ordinary Dog: My Partner from the SEAL Teams to the Bin Laden Raid
No Ordinary Dog is the powerful true story of a SEAL Team Operator and military dog handler, and the dog that saved his life.
Two dozen Navy SEALs descended on Osama bin Laden’s compound in May 2011. After the mission, only one name was made public: Cairo, a Belgian Malinois and military working dog. This is Cairo's story, and that of his handler, Will Chesney, a SEAL Team Operator whose life would be irrevocably tied to Cairo's.
Starting in 2008, when Will was introduced to the SEAL canine program, he and Cairo worked side by side, depending on each other for survival on hundreds of critical operations in the war on terrorism. But their bond transcended their service. Then, in 2011, the call came: Pick up your dog and get back to Virginia. Now.
What followed were several weeks of training for a secret mission. It soon became clear that this was no ordinary operation. Cairo was among the first members of the U.S. military on the ground in Pakistan as part of Operation Neptune Spear, which resulted in the successful elimination of bin Laden.
As Cairo settled into a role as a reliable “spare dog,” Will went back to his job as a DEVGRU operator, until a grenade blast in 2013 left him with a brain injury and PTSD. Unable to participate in further missions, he suffered from crippling migraines, chronic pain, memory issues, and depression. Modern medicine provided only modest relief. Instead, it was up to Cairo to save Will's life once more—and then up to Will to be there when Cairo needed him the most.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2020
516 people are currently reading
5936 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 384 reviews
June 25, 2024
This book takes you into the world of Navy SEALs and the role the military working dog has played in their operations during the War on Terror. It is a real tribute to these dogs and how they bravely serve as warriors alongside their human brothers in arms.
The first third of the book focuses on Will Chesney and his early life and BUDS training to qualify as a Navy SEAL, this in itself is very interesting. He then covers his first few deployments as a SEAL to Iraq and Afghanistan and how he was introduced to the MWD programme for special operations. His love for dogs and the interest he developed for this branch of special operations made him volunteer to go to war with a dog. The insights he gives here into how these dogs are chosen and then trained is very interesting and one learns a lot from this part of the book.
His time on deployments with Cairo is a small part of the book, and even the chapters where he covers Operation Neptune Spear and the killing of Osama Bin Laden is short. What I liked about his description of the operation is that he does not try to recreate the whole op, but just tells the part that he and Cairo played and what he saw and experienced during it. The book then goes on to where he himself was wounded and his road to recovery and how Cairo helped him heal mentally. The ending of the book, as all endings of time spent with dogs is a sad one, as we mostly outlive our canine companions.
Overall a good read, though it does get a bit repetitive and I never really got into the book as much as I wanted to. Still recommended if you want to learn more about the workings of military dogs.
The first third of the book focuses on Will Chesney and his early life and BUDS training to qualify as a Navy SEAL, this in itself is very interesting. He then covers his first few deployments as a SEAL to Iraq and Afghanistan and how he was introduced to the MWD programme for special operations. His love for dogs and the interest he developed for this branch of special operations made him volunteer to go to war with a dog. The insights he gives here into how these dogs are chosen and then trained is very interesting and one learns a lot from this part of the book.
His time on deployments with Cairo is a small part of the book, and even the chapters where he covers Operation Neptune Spear and the killing of Osama Bin Laden is short. What I liked about his description of the operation is that he does not try to recreate the whole op, but just tells the part that he and Cairo played and what he saw and experienced during it. The book then goes on to where he himself was wounded and his road to recovery and how Cairo helped him heal mentally. The ending of the book, as all endings of time spent with dogs is a sad one, as we mostly outlive our canine companions.
Overall a good read, though it does get a bit repetitive and I never really got into the book as much as I wanted to. Still recommended if you want to learn more about the workings of military dogs.
May 28, 2020
This is a memoir of Will Chesney and Cairo. Chesney tells about joining the Navy right out of high school. He goes into depth about his SEALs’ training and deployments. The author provides a brief history of the dogs in the SEALs. I had no idea the training for the dogs to be in the SEALs is as difficult as it is for the men and also had a high wash-out rate.
The book is well written and was difficult to put down. The story is mostly about the relationship between Chesney and Cairo. There is very little violence and no foul language. I found the book quite interesting. If you are interested in military dogs read this book.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is nine hours and forty-four minutes. Will Chesney does a good job narrating his own book.
The book is well written and was difficult to put down. The story is mostly about the relationship between Chesney and Cairo. There is very little violence and no foul language. I found the book quite interesting. If you are interested in military dogs read this book.
I read this as an audiobook downloaded from Audible. The book is nine hours and forty-four minutes. Will Chesney does a good job narrating his own book.
June 9, 2020
This book is an informative, heartfelt, and also a heart-wrenching memoir about a Navy Seal and his bond with Cairo, a Belgian Malinois, designated a combat assault dog. Malinois dogs are a smaller, leaner, more agile breed of the German Shepherd. They are considered the ideal dog for combat missions because of their highly developed ability to detect explosives, accelerants and to find hidden enemy targets.
Will Chesney knew from an early age that he wanted to become a Navy Seal. He describes himself as less athletic, not as big and muscular, or as strong physically as many of his peers. He joined the Navy right out of high school, but to him, that was only the first step to admittance into Seal training. A high percentage of the trainees dropped out, unable to take the rigorous, brutal training which challenged them both physically and mentally. Will feels he was able to make the cut through sheer determination, and a laidback personality where he was able to endure and adapt to all the challenges and display a calm, steadfast manner.
It was a happy day when he met his longtime goal and was enlisted into the SEALS. Their role is defined as carrying out small-unit military operations in maritime, jungle, arctic, mountainous, and desert environments. They are tasked with surveillance, capturing or killing high priority enemy targets, gathering intelligence behind enemy lines on enemy forces and locations for future military action. They are considered by many to be the elite military force comprised of a small number of the bravest, most dedicated men. What is little known is how vigorously the combat dogs are trained, and that only a few make it as working dogs deployed with the Seals.
After Will had been deployed on a number of combat missions to Iraq and Afghanistan, he became a dog handler and worked with Cairo. They formed a strong bond at work and off duty. On one mission, Cairo was seriously wounded, and Will credited his dog with saving his life. Once Cairo recovered from his wounds, both Will and Cairo were summoned for a top-secret mission. This was the raid in which Bin Laden was killed at his Pakistan hideout.
On a later mission, Will was wounded by shrapnel. He went through a long period of severe headaches, back pain, depression, memory loss, overmedicating and drinking to ease his pain. He was probably suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain injury resulting from his injuries. He knew his days in combat were finished. The bright spot of his day was visiting Cairo who was been kept in a military kennel. Will longed to bring Cairo home. He was now living with a girlfriend and 2 dogs. He waited impatiently for Cairo to be released. It was a happy day when he brought Cairo home, but the dog always so calm during warfare, was now showing symptoms of PTSD. Then Cairo came down with severe physical ailments. During their days of retirement from service, both helped each other heal from the mental traumas from which both the man and dog suffered.
Recommended for dog lovers, and for those wondering about the training and life of a combat dog. This was a well-written, easy to follow memoir, even if the reader knows very little about the military and the role of the SEALS.
Will Chesney knew from an early age that he wanted to become a Navy Seal. He describes himself as less athletic, not as big and muscular, or as strong physically as many of his peers. He joined the Navy right out of high school, but to him, that was only the first step to admittance into Seal training. A high percentage of the trainees dropped out, unable to take the rigorous, brutal training which challenged them both physically and mentally. Will feels he was able to make the cut through sheer determination, and a laidback personality where he was able to endure and adapt to all the challenges and display a calm, steadfast manner.
It was a happy day when he met his longtime goal and was enlisted into the SEALS. Their role is defined as carrying out small-unit military operations in maritime, jungle, arctic, mountainous, and desert environments. They are tasked with surveillance, capturing or killing high priority enemy targets, gathering intelligence behind enemy lines on enemy forces and locations for future military action. They are considered by many to be the elite military force comprised of a small number of the bravest, most dedicated men. What is little known is how vigorously the combat dogs are trained, and that only a few make it as working dogs deployed with the Seals.
After Will had been deployed on a number of combat missions to Iraq and Afghanistan, he became a dog handler and worked with Cairo. They formed a strong bond at work and off duty. On one mission, Cairo was seriously wounded, and Will credited his dog with saving his life. Once Cairo recovered from his wounds, both Will and Cairo were summoned for a top-secret mission. This was the raid in which Bin Laden was killed at his Pakistan hideout.
On a later mission, Will was wounded by shrapnel. He went through a long period of severe headaches, back pain, depression, memory loss, overmedicating and drinking to ease his pain. He was probably suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain injury resulting from his injuries. He knew his days in combat were finished. The bright spot of his day was visiting Cairo who was been kept in a military kennel. Will longed to bring Cairo home. He was now living with a girlfriend and 2 dogs. He waited impatiently for Cairo to be released. It was a happy day when he brought Cairo home, but the dog always so calm during warfare, was now showing symptoms of PTSD. Then Cairo came down with severe physical ailments. During their days of retirement from service, both helped each other heal from the mental traumas from which both the man and dog suffered.
Recommended for dog lovers, and for those wondering about the training and life of a combat dog. This was a well-written, easy to follow memoir, even if the reader knows very little about the military and the role of the SEALS.
June 29, 2022
"It is a fact of life that military dogs are at enormous risk for sustaining injury, as they are often the first members of a SEAL unit on the ground and thus first in harm’s way."
Will Chesney has a powerful and interesting story to tell both about himself and his time with Cairo, the SEAL Team dog who is the focus of this memoir. Before we get to Cairo, Chesney takes us through the philosophy of training both for humans and canines. "There is a reason SEAL training hasn’t evolved much over the years: it’s highly effective exactly as it is. The SEALs want not just warriors but men who can follow orders while also thinking on their feet; men who will not panic in the heat of battle, and who will not quit under stress; men who will die for their brothers."
"It was part of Cairo’s job to search the perimeter before we advanced on a building or compound. Similarly, he often was the first member of the troop to enter a dark and dangerous building. He did this repeatedly and with unwavering reliability; he did it fearlessly."
There are plenty of episodes but Chesney keeps his sights set: "I want to focus on the exhaustive and intricate training that went into making Cairo the extraordinary soldier he was; and what he meant to his fellow fighters, and to me personally; and why I went to such enormous lengths to cut through the bureaucracy that nearly kept us apart in his waning years."
If you are going to read this book, I suspect that you like dogs or are interested in them. You have to wait a while to get to the story of Cairo because Chesney takes you through his own life, his training and pre-Cairo experiences before we come to his decision to be a SEAL dog handler. Then there is a longer wait, if your interest is just in the Bin Laden raid. There isn’t much deep philosophical pondering about killing. "I knew there was a good chance the night would end with gunfire and the elimination of a target."
"In every way, Cairo was one of the guys. Except he was a dog, which by nature made him somewhat unpredictable, regardless of his training or genetic gifts."
I am sure that this book with affect readers in different ways depending on their own experiences. I certainly felt the pleasure that comes between human and dog working together.
"But the story doesn’t end there, and it doesn’t end on a high note. It never does with dogs, right? Someone once said that buying a dog is like buying a small tragedy. You know on the very first day how it all will turn out. But that’s not the point, is it? It’s the journey that counts, what you give the dog and what you get in return; Cairo gave me more than I ever imagined, probably more than I deserved. This is for you, buddy."
3.5*
Thanks to my GR friend, Jean, for her fine review that got me interested in this book. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Will Chesney has a powerful and interesting story to tell both about himself and his time with Cairo, the SEAL Team dog who is the focus of this memoir. Before we get to Cairo, Chesney takes us through the philosophy of training both for humans and canines. "There is a reason SEAL training hasn’t evolved much over the years: it’s highly effective exactly as it is. The SEALs want not just warriors but men who can follow orders while also thinking on their feet; men who will not panic in the heat of battle, and who will not quit under stress; men who will die for their brothers."
"It was part of Cairo’s job to search the perimeter before we advanced on a building or compound. Similarly, he often was the first member of the troop to enter a dark and dangerous building. He did this repeatedly and with unwavering reliability; he did it fearlessly."
There are plenty of episodes but Chesney keeps his sights set: "I want to focus on the exhaustive and intricate training that went into making Cairo the extraordinary soldier he was; and what he meant to his fellow fighters, and to me personally; and why I went to such enormous lengths to cut through the bureaucracy that nearly kept us apart in his waning years."
If you are going to read this book, I suspect that you like dogs or are interested in them. You have to wait a while to get to the story of Cairo because Chesney takes you through his own life, his training and pre-Cairo experiences before we come to his decision to be a SEAL dog handler. Then there is a longer wait, if your interest is just in the Bin Laden raid. There isn’t much deep philosophical pondering about killing. "I knew there was a good chance the night would end with gunfire and the elimination of a target."
"In every way, Cairo was one of the guys. Except he was a dog, which by nature made him somewhat unpredictable, regardless of his training or genetic gifts."
I am sure that this book with affect readers in different ways depending on their own experiences. I certainly felt the pleasure that comes between human and dog working together.
"But the story doesn’t end there, and it doesn’t end on a high note. It never does with dogs, right? Someone once said that buying a dog is like buying a small tragedy. You know on the very first day how it all will turn out. But that’s not the point, is it? It’s the journey that counts, what you give the dog and what you get in return; Cairo gave me more than I ever imagined, probably more than I deserved. This is for you, buddy."
3.5*
Thanks to my GR friend, Jean, for her fine review that got me interested in this book. https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
March 12, 2020
This book starts out when Will, a recent high school graduate, decides he wants to be a Navy SEAL. The description of the training process is really amazing; I assumed it was challenging, but had no idea how rigorous it was. He had several tours in Iraq, and began to work with the combat dogs before he was deployed to Afghanistan. Cairo was a Belgian Malinois, and an amazing team member and friend--he was the dog who accompanied the mission which took out Osama Bin Laden. Will had several deployments, the last of which ended his military career. His story of pain, PTSD, and self medication will sadly resonate with many veterans. Even though the combat descriptions were hard to read (and except for a brief mention of politics, which was to me irrelevant to his exceptional story) this book tells an amazing story of war, its repercussions, and Cairo, who was not only a working partner to the SEAL team, but who also proved to be a much-loved friend to Will. Thanks to the publisher and to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2020
No Ordinary Dog is the true story of a Navy Seal & his MPD partner Cairo, and it’s most definitely going to be on my favorites list for 2020. I could not put this down. From the BTS look at the process of becoming a Navy Seal, to the deployments & comradery among the soldiers, to the patriotism & eventually the story behind training MPD’s & how valued they are by our men & women on the front lines. And of course, the Bin Laden raid! These dogs are incredible. I’ll never forget this one ❤️ I laughed, I sobbed, I had goosebumps. I wish everyone would read this! Even if you only read one Non-Fiction this year, I highly recommend this one! Listened on Libby, read by the author.
March 15, 2020
This one was interesting and a heart wrencher for me. I am an animal person, so that must have something to do with it. I am also a huge supporter of our military and what they do for us every day. It was a fantastic read about both Will and Cairo.
I found it very interesting to read about Will and his beginning in the Navy. It was exciting to read the things he went through to become a SEAL. He is truly a hero as are all our military members. I appreciate them and all they go through. The story was intriguing and engaging. I just wanted to continue to read. My father was in the Navy; we weren’t close, which means I really never knew much about the military. It wasn’t something he ever talked about it. I have seen old photos of him, but never really asked him about it either. I have heard stories and I work with retired military personnel, but this read was different. It was fantastic.
Then getting into his becoming a dog handler and his relationship with Cairo and all they went through was amazing. That was an amazing bond and I respect and understand that. I have had so many pets in my life and have been very close to most of my pets. I can’t imaging life without them, but this bond was so much more. Them working together and in life and death situations day in and day out; it was touching to read this story of them both. It was also endearing to read all that Will has been through and how much he has come through and healed.
Then came the end and I was crying my eyes out, from sadness and understanding and heartbreak. This was a fantastic read and I am so happy to have won this one in a Goodreads giveaway. Fantastic work and I truly appreciate both of their services. I also appreciate him putting his story down to share with us. Inspiring, heartfelt, he put his soul out there and I appreciate him and am amazed at all they both endured and Will will continue to endure for the rest of his life.
I found it very interesting to read about Will and his beginning in the Navy. It was exciting to read the things he went through to become a SEAL. He is truly a hero as are all our military members. I appreciate them and all they go through. The story was intriguing and engaging. I just wanted to continue to read. My father was in the Navy; we weren’t close, which means I really never knew much about the military. It wasn’t something he ever talked about it. I have seen old photos of him, but never really asked him about it either. I have heard stories and I work with retired military personnel, but this read was different. It was fantastic.
Then getting into his becoming a dog handler and his relationship with Cairo and all they went through was amazing. That was an amazing bond and I respect and understand that. I have had so many pets in my life and have been very close to most of my pets. I can’t imaging life without them, but this bond was so much more. Them working together and in life and death situations day in and day out; it was touching to read this story of them both. It was also endearing to read all that Will has been through and how much he has come through and healed.
Then came the end and I was crying my eyes out, from sadness and understanding and heartbreak. This was a fantastic read and I am so happy to have won this one in a Goodreads giveaway. Fantastic work and I truly appreciate both of their services. I also appreciate him putting his story down to share with us. Inspiring, heartfelt, he put his soul out there and I appreciate him and am amazed at all they both endured and Will will continue to endure for the rest of his life.
March 15, 2020
I am finishing this book with tears rolling down my face. This was such a beautiful tribute to such a beautiful dog who gave so much to his country and I’m glad I know his story. As the wife of an Army Veteran who suffers from PTSD and the mom of two shepherds this book hit me like a ton of bricks. I felt every emotion and every deployment. I’m so proud of our veterans and the battle they still fight when they come home.
If your a dog lover please read this book- out April 2020! Thanks to Netgalley for my advanced ebook copy!
If your a dog lover please read this book- out April 2020! Thanks to Netgalley for my advanced ebook copy!
January 18, 2020
As a Librarian and dog lover, this book immediately appealed to me. I was sobbing just reading the introduction. Chesney has a great story to tell, and assistance by Joe Layden makes No Ordinary Dog a great read.
September 4, 2020
4.5
I've wondered about the dog, Cairo, ever since I heard that he had assisted in the Ben Laden Raid in 2011. I had just begun to foster Belgian Malinois puppies for the Military Working Dog (MWD) program at Lackland in San Antonio. They are like no other dogs, even as babies. I also understood the secrecy surrounding them in the military, especially the special forces dogs, and I had met several of the handlers who had served with these dogs. Our puppies are sent to the four service branches and would be trained at Lackland. Special forces and secret service have their own programs. When their dogs appear at the Holland Veterinary Hospital on base for treatment, great secrecy surrounds them; no one even admits their presence. That's how unique and treasured they are.
I watched with rapt attention as President Obama met with the fabled Cairo who was muzzled for civilian safety. We raised the babies, from 8 weeks to 7 months, and often had minor bites and scratches from their teeth and claws. I could only imagine the damage an adult, fully combat trained MWD could impose on someone who made the wrong move. It made perfect sense that Cairo wore a muzzle when he met the Commander in Chief. Even now, MWDs are muzzled in public, always, even the breeding females who are often fostered with experienced civilians when not whelping or actively nursing their litters. The puppies are removed from the mother at the tender age of 4 weeks and now go out to foster at 6 weeks because of the damage their rough, aggressive play inflicts on mom and litter mates. They are a force of nature. Really!
And the Special Forces MWDs are elite among these. I was delighted to see nearly 10 years after his service on that historic raid, that Cairo's story was to be told, by the handler who had worked with him and served with him. I was especially happy to know that in the end, when Cairo retired with honor, he was allowed to go home with that handler because I knew something of the bond that forms between these dogs and the people they work so closely with. Will Chesney tells his personal story and that of Cairo in this book; it rings true to everything I have seen and observed with Belgian Malinois. I live now with 6 of these adult dogs, most of whom we raised as puppies but who failed for various legitimate reasons to make the cut as working dogs. They literally are the center of our lives, requiring continual training, supervision, and attention. They are never outside or free in the house without one or both of us present.
Will Chesney "got the dog right" in his book, and he did not fail to respect Cairo's power and potential to cause serious harm while giving him the love and companionship these brilliant, sensitive creatures require. He had his own demons which helped him relate to those of this complex canine. He loved the dog beyond all reason (as I do mine), but he also understood and accepted that he was not a "normal dog." Malinois are not for most families or most normal people. They are difficult and always challenging, a dog like Cairo so much more so than my crazy, "washouts."
If these dogs interest you, this is an excellent book. It is honest and blunt. It is not always happy, but it is realistic and inspiring as well. I wish Will Chesney all the best, a life of purpose and fulfillment . He, like Cairo, has earned it. And please, do not get a Malinois until you have fostered several so you know what that will mean to your life...it will change completely.
I've wondered about the dog, Cairo, ever since I heard that he had assisted in the Ben Laden Raid in 2011. I had just begun to foster Belgian Malinois puppies for the Military Working Dog (MWD) program at Lackland in San Antonio. They are like no other dogs, even as babies. I also understood the secrecy surrounding them in the military, especially the special forces dogs, and I had met several of the handlers who had served with these dogs. Our puppies are sent to the four service branches and would be trained at Lackland. Special forces and secret service have their own programs. When their dogs appear at the Holland Veterinary Hospital on base for treatment, great secrecy surrounds them; no one even admits their presence. That's how unique and treasured they are.
I watched with rapt attention as President Obama met with the fabled Cairo who was muzzled for civilian safety. We raised the babies, from 8 weeks to 7 months, and often had minor bites and scratches from their teeth and claws. I could only imagine the damage an adult, fully combat trained MWD could impose on someone who made the wrong move. It made perfect sense that Cairo wore a muzzle when he met the Commander in Chief. Even now, MWDs are muzzled in public, always, even the breeding females who are often fostered with experienced civilians when not whelping or actively nursing their litters. The puppies are removed from the mother at the tender age of 4 weeks and now go out to foster at 6 weeks because of the damage their rough, aggressive play inflicts on mom and litter mates. They are a force of nature. Really!
And the Special Forces MWDs are elite among these. I was delighted to see nearly 10 years after his service on that historic raid, that Cairo's story was to be told, by the handler who had worked with him and served with him. I was especially happy to know that in the end, when Cairo retired with honor, he was allowed to go home with that handler because I knew something of the bond that forms between these dogs and the people they work so closely with. Will Chesney tells his personal story and that of Cairo in this book; it rings true to everything I have seen and observed with Belgian Malinois. I live now with 6 of these adult dogs, most of whom we raised as puppies but who failed for various legitimate reasons to make the cut as working dogs. They literally are the center of our lives, requiring continual training, supervision, and attention. They are never outside or free in the house without one or both of us present.
Will Chesney "got the dog right" in his book, and he did not fail to respect Cairo's power and potential to cause serious harm while giving him the love and companionship these brilliant, sensitive creatures require. He had his own demons which helped him relate to those of this complex canine. He loved the dog beyond all reason (as I do mine), but he also understood and accepted that he was not a "normal dog." Malinois are not for most families or most normal people. They are difficult and always challenging, a dog like Cairo so much more so than my crazy, "washouts."
If these dogs interest you, this is an excellent book. It is honest and blunt. It is not always happy, but it is realistic and inspiring as well. I wish Will Chesney all the best, a life of purpose and fulfillment . He, like Cairo, has earned it. And please, do not get a Malinois until you have fostered several so you know what that will mean to your life...it will change completely.
April 28, 2020
4 1/2 extraordinary stars! Wonderful book for dog lover's, to learn about the Navy military Seal training, and also to learn about " Operation Neptune Spear " and the elimination of bin Laden. Well written and an amazing memoir!
April 16, 2020
I just finished reading this book, and really wanted to type up this review while my emotions surrounding it are still fresh. Do you know how some books affect you, and change how you view things in your world? This book ended up being one of those for me.
The first part of the book starts out with details of SEAL training - it was well-written, but not very different from other books that I read. The next portion of the book talks about how the military acquires their Combat Attack Dogs and goes about training them. I never knew that the majority of them come from Europe, or why a Belgian Malinois might be preferred over a German Shepard for some roles (size/weight). I have known about Military Working Dogs being used to detect IED's, find targets, etc., but I really hadn't known much about their training or use as Combat Attack Dogs. This book takes us through the process of selection, training, and also how the handlers are matched with their dogs; I found this interesting.
There are 2 things that I feel really sets this book apart from others that I have read previously. First and foremost, it is clear to see the bond that Will developed with Cairo. A lot of us pet owners know the depth of the love you can feel for a pet, but you can tell that Cairo is not only loved by Will, but deeply RESPECTED. He is not a pet, or a tool used during a time of war, but a Brother-In-Arms. He has been in the trenches with Will, including the Osama Bin Laden raid he is famous for, and Will trusts him to do his job as a professional. We also see Will's devotion to Cairo as he is injured during a mission, and then also later on in his life when his health is failing.
The second thing that sets this book apart from me is Will's willingness to share his own struggles and vulnerability with the reader. For someone who has been at the top of their game, it must be difficult to not only lose that edge, but to admit when you have struggles and then to share them with others takes a lot of courage. It made me feel connected to Will and Cairo's story, and really made me appreciate (even more) the sacrifices they made for our country and our freedom.
What really sets this book apart for me, and what is behind my 5 star rating, is the heart that clearly shines through in this one.
The first part of the book starts out with details of SEAL training - it was well-written, but not very different from other books that I read. The next portion of the book talks about how the military acquires their Combat Attack Dogs and goes about training them. I never knew that the majority of them come from Europe, or why a Belgian Malinois might be preferred over a German Shepard for some roles (size/weight). I have known about Military Working Dogs being used to detect IED's, find targets, etc., but I really hadn't known much about their training or use as Combat Attack Dogs. This book takes us through the process of selection, training, and also how the handlers are matched with their dogs; I found this interesting.
There are 2 things that I feel really sets this book apart from others that I have read previously. First and foremost, it is clear to see the bond that Will developed with Cairo. A lot of us pet owners know the depth of the love you can feel for a pet, but you can tell that Cairo is not only loved by Will, but deeply RESPECTED. He is not a pet, or a tool used during a time of war, but a Brother-In-Arms. He has been in the trenches with Will, including the Osama Bin Laden raid he is famous for, and Will trusts him to do his job as a professional. We also see Will's devotion to Cairo as he is injured during a mission, and then also later on in his life when his health is failing.
The second thing that sets this book apart from me is Will's willingness to share his own struggles and vulnerability with the reader. For someone who has been at the top of their game, it must be difficult to not only lose that edge, but to admit when you have struggles and then to share them with others takes a lot of courage. It made me feel connected to Will and Cairo's story, and really made me appreciate (even more) the sacrifices they made for our country and our freedom.
What really sets this book apart for me, and what is behind my 5 star rating, is the heart that clearly shines through in this one.
August 10, 2021
A well-written and cohesive memoir.
There’s not too much on Chesney’s combat experiences, and you can read a little about those in Robert O’Neill’s memoir (O’Neill calls him “Cheese” in that book), and instead Chesney focuses on his interaction with Cairo at home and overseas. The account of the bin Laden raid was briefer than I expected, and focuses mostly on Chesney and Cairo’s own roles.
Chesney (who decided to write the book after reading inaccurate stories about him and Cairo on the Internet) does a great job capturing the dynamics of his relationship with Cairo. The narrative is dramatic and Chesney ably conveys the thrilling, humorous and tragic aspects of his career. The dogs’ selection and training were something I didn’t know anything about, and these parts are interesting. He also covers how these dogs are fed, groomed, and exercised, what it’s like to deploy with a dog, and even what it’s like to fast-rope from a helicopter with a dog.
The writing is riveting and heartfelt. Chesney’s tone is pretty restrained, and he doesn’t try to play up his own role or experiences. In fact, you end up learning more about Cairo than you do about Chesney. You can tell he misses Cairo intensely (the dog passed away from cancer in 2016)
A solid and compelling work.
There’s not too much on Chesney’s combat experiences, and you can read a little about those in Robert O’Neill’s memoir (O’Neill calls him “Cheese” in that book), and instead Chesney focuses on his interaction with Cairo at home and overseas. The account of the bin Laden raid was briefer than I expected, and focuses mostly on Chesney and Cairo’s own roles.
Chesney (who decided to write the book after reading inaccurate stories about him and Cairo on the Internet) does a great job capturing the dynamics of his relationship with Cairo. The narrative is dramatic and Chesney ably conveys the thrilling, humorous and tragic aspects of his career. The dogs’ selection and training were something I didn’t know anything about, and these parts are interesting. He also covers how these dogs are fed, groomed, and exercised, what it’s like to deploy with a dog, and even what it’s like to fast-rope from a helicopter with a dog.
The writing is riveting and heartfelt. Chesney’s tone is pretty restrained, and he doesn’t try to play up his own role or experiences. In fact, you end up learning more about Cairo than you do about Chesney. You can tell he misses Cairo intensely (the dog passed away from cancer in 2016)
A solid and compelling work.
April 30, 2022
Great book, definitely worth 5 stars or more. For me though, the question was is it so good that it should be included in the category of 'best dog books of all time?' Wesley Banks has it as one of his list of 100 best dog books (9th for 2022) so I had to check it out for myself.
This book hit all my criteria to be a favorite:
I really loved the book.
I look forward to reading it again someday.
It was hard to put down, especially leading up to the raid to get Bin Laden.
It was definitely a different type of book and had amazing moments.
The prose and writing style was very good and I found a fair amount of passages exceptional that I copied them to my list of favorite quotes.
Ok, now let's talk about No Ordinary Dog.
I loved how you really got to know the author, from his recollections starting when he was 17 and committed to becoming a Navy Seal, and to get to know a Belgian Malinois/shepherd mix. I could feel a calm inner strength of both that allowed them to do amazing work for their country. Felt like solid writing of solid people.
Every dog is great, but most are not called on to do great challenging work, and Cairo was called on to do amazingly challenging work. A big part of the work involved bite work. That different type of work, and the straightforward way the author discusses it, helps it stand out from all other types of books on dogs. The author writes about it not to sensationalize it, but just details how it is part of the job given. Hard to find the right words, but here's a few quotes I liked relating to that:
“When a dog gets within a few feet, before he tries to bite, I'll give him a little poke on the nose, just to see how he reacts. Mike Reaver said. It's not hard, doesn't hurt him. but it does put him back on his feet a little bit. That's what we want. We want to see how he responds to that aggression. If he dives right in and bites, that's awesome. If he stands six inches away from my legs, barking, waiting for me to open up or give him a window of opportunity, that's okay too. but if he backs up twenty feet, that's a problem. That means he's not comfortable with this level of aggression.
The poke test may not be a perfect gauge of a dog's spirit, but it can be an effective way to measure a dog's fighting instinct.”
“Cario was a great dog, friendly and playful and trustworthy around strangers, but he was still a dog. Centuries of breeding, combined with the best training money can by, had made him a highly adept hunter. Nothing made him happier than to sink his teeth into his prey. That’s just a simple, irrefutable fact. As a result, Cairo, like all combat assault dogs, required endless refresher training on the less enjoyable and (to them) more mundane aspects of their work, primarily scent detection. Once exposed to biting, especially real biting with bloody results, a dog wanted nothing more than to bite again.”
It is taking me a while to write this review as I consider my pointing out some details discussed on bite work. I do not to want people to think that is all this book is all about. I feel like it is talking about what a person does for work, but I don't want to lose sight of how you really get to know both the handler and the dog as a person and the journey in life they took. Cairo was very good at this work, but you also get to know how great he was in all the ways a normal good dog is. That part that we feel with our dogs.
Anyway, great book. Very different from other type of dog books and in my opinion, worthy of being in the best dog books of all time.
This book hit all my criteria to be a favorite:
I really loved the book.
I look forward to reading it again someday.
It was hard to put down, especially leading up to the raid to get Bin Laden.
It was definitely a different type of book and had amazing moments.
The prose and writing style was very good and I found a fair amount of passages exceptional that I copied them to my list of favorite quotes.
Ok, now let's talk about No Ordinary Dog.
I loved how you really got to know the author, from his recollections starting when he was 17 and committed to becoming a Navy Seal, and to get to know a Belgian Malinois/shepherd mix. I could feel a calm inner strength of both that allowed them to do amazing work for their country. Felt like solid writing of solid people.
Every dog is great, but most are not called on to do great challenging work, and Cairo was called on to do amazingly challenging work. A big part of the work involved bite work. That different type of work, and the straightforward way the author discusses it, helps it stand out from all other types of books on dogs. The author writes about it not to sensationalize it, but just details how it is part of the job given. Hard to find the right words, but here's a few quotes I liked relating to that:
“When a dog gets within a few feet, before he tries to bite, I'll give him a little poke on the nose, just to see how he reacts. Mike Reaver said. It's not hard, doesn't hurt him. but it does put him back on his feet a little bit. That's what we want. We want to see how he responds to that aggression. If he dives right in and bites, that's awesome. If he stands six inches away from my legs, barking, waiting for me to open up or give him a window of opportunity, that's okay too. but if he backs up twenty feet, that's a problem. That means he's not comfortable with this level of aggression.
The poke test may not be a perfect gauge of a dog's spirit, but it can be an effective way to measure a dog's fighting instinct.”
“Cario was a great dog, friendly and playful and trustworthy around strangers, but he was still a dog. Centuries of breeding, combined with the best training money can by, had made him a highly adept hunter. Nothing made him happier than to sink his teeth into his prey. That’s just a simple, irrefutable fact. As a result, Cairo, like all combat assault dogs, required endless refresher training on the less enjoyable and (to them) more mundane aspects of their work, primarily scent detection. Once exposed to biting, especially real biting with bloody results, a dog wanted nothing more than to bite again.”
It is taking me a while to write this review as I consider my pointing out some details discussed on bite work. I do not to want people to think that is all this book is all about. I feel like it is talking about what a person does for work, but I don't want to lose sight of how you really get to know both the handler and the dog as a person and the journey in life they took. Cairo was very good at this work, but you also get to know how great he was in all the ways a normal good dog is. That part that we feel with our dogs.
Anyway, great book. Very different from other type of dog books and in my opinion, worthy of being in the best dog books of all time.
February 20, 2020
I won an advance readers addition of this book through Goodreads. I was pretty excited, because A) I won! B) I’m an animal lover.
Don’t skip the foreword in this book. It’s good. It also explains that this is a book for Cairo, the Malinois that Chesney trained and served with.
But it’s more than just about Cairo. It’s a narrative that draws you in. As I read I learned more about how the SEALS are trained and the level of expertise that these folks have. I have a deeper level of appreciation for those who train in this program.
Readers also will get taken along for two tours of duty. The raid on Bin Laden. It’s not a bloody, gory version...but yeah, people die. There is much more to this book than the raid on Bin Laden’s estate thought. There is courage, there is honestly and there is love.
Ultimately, you can feel the love and respect for Cairo. And we all know how dog stories end. With Kleenex and ugly crying (but that might just be me).
One other quick note, because our current world is so politically divided....This book was not written to be a political expression and can be enjoyed by everyone. I would definitely recommend this book for readers 13+ in age. The writing was clean and it was good.
Thank you for your service Mr Chesney and thank you for sharing Cairo and your story with all of us.
Don’t skip the foreword in this book. It’s good. It also explains that this is a book for Cairo, the Malinois that Chesney trained and served with.
But it’s more than just about Cairo. It’s a narrative that draws you in. As I read I learned more about how the SEALS are trained and the level of expertise that these folks have. I have a deeper level of appreciation for those who train in this program.
Readers also will get taken along for two tours of duty. The raid on Bin Laden. It’s not a bloody, gory version...but yeah, people die. There is much more to this book than the raid on Bin Laden’s estate thought. There is courage, there is honestly and there is love.
Ultimately, you can feel the love and respect for Cairo. And we all know how dog stories end. With Kleenex and ugly crying (but that might just be me).
One other quick note, because our current world is so politically divided....This book was not written to be a political expression and can be enjoyed by everyone. I would definitely recommend this book for readers 13+ in age. The writing was clean and it was good.
Thank you for your service Mr Chesney and thank you for sharing Cairo and your story with all of us.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2021
I had heard of Cairo long before I saw this book, so it was an easy one for me to pick up to read even though I tend to avoid all the animal books because they make me cry. Spoiler alert, this one did too.
I thought this was an interesting read on the selection and training processes for military dogs, how Will Chesney and Cairo bonded and you get the genuine respect, admiration, and love that Will develops for Cairo over their time together.
There's more than I expected about the process of becoming a SEAL since it specifically mentions it's not about that, but I suppose that's really to give you the backstory of how the author began his journey and became a dog handler.
What really stands out for me in this book is Will Chesney's ownership of the struggles he had personally after being injured - you don't see a lot of books that own up to that part, they sort of end with the heroics of the "event" described in the book. And this later connects with Cairo's own version of PTSD later in his life.
This isn't a book to read if you want the details of Operation Neptune Spear, though the mission is in the book since Cairo and Will were there.
The last bits did make me cry despite knowing that it was coming. It's a heartfelt and deserving tribute to one of our nations four-legged heroes.
I thought this was an interesting read on the selection and training processes for military dogs, how Will Chesney and Cairo bonded and you get the genuine respect, admiration, and love that Will develops for Cairo over their time together.
There's more than I expected about the process of becoming a SEAL since it specifically mentions it's not about that, but I suppose that's really to give you the backstory of how the author began his journey and became a dog handler.
What really stands out for me in this book is Will Chesney's ownership of the struggles he had personally after being injured - you don't see a lot of books that own up to that part, they sort of end with the heroics of the "event" described in the book. And this later connects with Cairo's own version of PTSD later in his life.
This isn't a book to read if you want the details of Operation Neptune Spear, though the mission is in the book since Cairo and Will were there.
The last bits did make me cry despite knowing that it was coming. It's a heartfelt and deserving tribute to one of our nations four-legged heroes.
March 2, 2021
I really enjoyed this book and debated about the 5 stars, but could really not justify a 4 . As a navy mom and a huge dog lover this really appealed to me. Will tells a very detailed background of the process he went through with his training to become a SEAL and Cairo the dog featured does not make an appearance until close to the 1/2 way point. There is a lot of bad language in this book most of which I know is part of the military life. But the storyline flows smoothly and kept my interest quite well.
A fascinating peek into the insides of the Navy life and especially what happens to bring down Bin Laden was a wonderful read for me and I think you will enjoy it as well. There is not much goriness in this book as opposed to most military set nonfictional accounts so I appreciated that.
The book is well written and flows through the events without jumping around through different times.
The publication date is set for April 21st of 2020 I received an advance e-copy of this title from NetGalley. All of the review is my opinion.
A fascinating peek into the insides of the Navy life and especially what happens to bring down Bin Laden was a wonderful read for me and I think you will enjoy it as well. There is not much goriness in this book as opposed to most military set nonfictional accounts so I appreciated that.
The book is well written and flows through the events without jumping around through different times.
The publication date is set for April 21st of 2020 I received an advance e-copy of this title from NetGalley. All of the review is my opinion.
July 4, 2021
I read the hard copy book and loved it. I loved it because it’s another SEAL book and story, it’s yet another book from a member of the raid on UBL, and it’s about Cairo and I’m a large dog lover and owner and I have had and lost three golden retrievers and the first loss happened in my arms in the ER table at the ER vet office and that was the hardest because it was unexpected.
I highly recommend this book.
I highly recommend this book.
May 1, 2020
Thank you Will for all of your service and sacrifice to our country and for our freedom!!! This story is amazing and i learned a lot about what it takes to become a SEAL. Very impressive!!! Cairo was a true hero.
August 23, 2020
Loved this book. I am
A dog person all the way. Cairo’s story is told beautifully . I did the audible version read by the author. Very well done.
A dog person all the way. Cairo’s story is told beautifully . I did the audible version read by the author. Very well done.
November 28, 2022
4.75 First of all thank you so much to Will Chesney for sharing your and Cairo’s experience and story with us. Even though I am Canadian I appreciate your service and the man that you are very much. I love dogs too and I was so moved to see how much you loved and took care of Cairo. I also have my dogs’ ashes kept in urns with their names on them on a memorial table I have in my home. I think it is very touching that you carry Cairo’s ashes with you everywhere.
This book is a very easy to read page turner mixed with details of what it takes to be a Navy Seal, their missions and Cairo’s life story. It will educate you about how special Navy Seals really are; not just the soldiers they become but the spectacular men inside. I knew they were extraordinary before I read this book but I now have a whole new level of reverence and respect for them.
If you are a dog lover you will love this book.
This book is a very easy to read page turner mixed with details of what it takes to be a Navy Seal, their missions and Cairo’s life story. It will educate you about how special Navy Seals really are; not just the soldiers they become but the spectacular men inside. I knew they were extraordinary before I read this book but I now have a whole new level of reverence and respect for them.
If you are a dog lover you will love this book.
August 12, 2020
I don’t often read books about dogs, because you know how it’s going to end, and frankly I don’t need the heartache. But I decided to give this one a go. No surprises...most of us are familiar with this story. And while I do believe Cairo was an incredible dog, this story is as much about his handler Will Chesney’s journey, the incredible bond these two shared, and the untold sacrifices our military men, women and K9’s make to keep us safe.
April 10, 2020
RTC when I'm not an emotional wreck over this book.
January 30, 2022
A great dog and a great story. The end is crushing as any dog lover knows. The spirit of Cairo will live on.
November 21, 2024
4.5 stars! As far as I'm concerned, the Navy SEAL who authored this book can do whatever he wants, including narrating it! The first 25% of the book doesn't have much about Cairo the dog It's mostly Will's life and BUDS training. That was fine by me as I find SEAL training interesting. The rest of the book is about his time with Cairo. As a dog lover, this made the book hard to put down (or in my case hard to stop listening to).
This book may not interest everyone, but If you're a dog lover, then give it a shot.
This book may not interest everyone, but If you're a dog lover, then give it a shot.
September 15, 2022
I have read many MWD books and I enjoy them. This one was a little bit different, as it didn't fully focus on Cario, but how the handler became his handler for the longer off his deployment. It was filled with many emotions, and kept an easy pace. I enjoyed it not just as a dog lover, but i love the stories of MWDs. Over all, a great read. I wish Navy SEAL Veteran Will Chesney well, and my heart goes out to Cario. No doubt the top of the list of MWDs in the military. A job well done. And I thank the both of them for their service. 🐾
February 24, 2022
Amazing story!!! This was a great book with a great story and even better than expected. How amazing these men and animals are is truly impressive. Worth the read for sure!!!!
September 17, 2020
Will Chesney wanted to be a Navy Seal at a young age and goes for his dream right after high school. He endures the physical and mental challenge and becomes a Navy Seal. Not long after accomplishing his dream he volunteers to become a military working dog handler after attending an assault dog demonstration. The dogs have to go through intense training just like their handlers. Will Chesney is paired with Cairo and they bond quickly.
The book is very raw and gives a very ugly look as well as a beautiful look at the life of Will Chesney and his Dog Cairo. Some of the content can be hard to swallow for animal lovers.
The book is very raw and gives a very ugly look as well as a beautiful look at the life of Will Chesney and his Dog Cairo. Some of the content can be hard to swallow for animal lovers.
January 18, 2021
Absolutely one of the best books I’ve ever read. The story is incredibly written and you feel every emotion as Will is going through it. I definitely didn’t expect to cry at all but found myself several times in tears with this book. But mid way through the book I couldn’t put down! A definite must read!!
July 10, 2020
Such an endearing story and such a tough ending. It has also given me a far better understanding of what it takes to be a Navy Seal, what goes into the making of a military trained dog and dog handler, and the deep sacrifices made.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 384 reviews