Recently, American Humane Society reunited a retired military dog, Frenky, with his former handler, Staff Sergeant Kristin, who were separated in 2021.
She said it was like “leaving a child behind” back then, and two will undoubtedly be looking forward to catching up over rucks, runs, and couch-cuddles.
Frenky and Kristin served together for nearly four and a half years, including a 9-month combat tour in Afghanistan and a 10-month combat tour in Iraq. The 10-year-old German Shepherd was trained in explosive detection and bite work.
During his time with Kristin, the pair completed roughly 20 Secret Service missions helping protect high-profile VIPs, including the President, Vice President, First Lady, and several foreign dignitaries.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to reunite military working dog Frenky with his best friend,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane Society. “American Humane Society is honored to help give this courageous canine the comfortable retirement he deserves after six years of distinguished service to our country.”
During their first mission with US Special Forces, the team encountered sniper fire and mortar rounds, tragically resulting in several American casualties. Despite the action, Frenky remained calm, and continued his vital work searching for explosives, earning the respect and appreciation of the Special Forces team they were assigned to.
Frenky quickly became an unofficial mascot for the base. His sweet, goofy personality helped boost morale and provided comfort during difficult deployments.
Frenky and Kristin were separated in 2021 when the latter was reassigned to Fort Drum in northern New York. She was heartbroken to have to leave Frenky behind.
Since learning that Frenky might retire, Kristin has been “chomping at the bit” to see him again and bring him home. When the news became official, she immediately reached out to American Humane Society for help, having learned about the organization from a close friend at Lackland, who used the program to locate and adopt his own retired military dog.
American Humane Society helped reunite the pair by picking up Frenky from Fort Johnson in Louisiana and personally escorting him to his new home in San Antonio, Texas. Kristin is excited to give Frenky the opportunity to enjoy being a dog, relaxing on the couch, and living in a home, instead of a kennel.
In addition to covering all transportation costs of the reunification, American Humane Society will provide free veterinary care for the rest of Frenky’s life, in honor of the service he provided for his handler, his unit, and his country.
