It should definitely be easier for handlers to get their dogs if they wish, but I take isse with several statements.
No dog “served” in our civil war.
Neither did Rinty or Lassie serve in any war.
Strongheart was actually a war dog, though.
In an official capacity, true; however, there were numerous, "unofficial," dogs that served as mascots, guards, etc. perhaps the most notable was "Jack," of the 102nd PA Infantry. Jack was taken prisoner by the Confederacy, and later exchanged for a Confederate (human) prisoner held by the Union...