For the longest time, the Department of Defense viewed military dogs as equipment which meant that they were discarded when they were no longer useful, however, that changed in 2015 when a new bill was signed into law.
TSGT Dustin Cain works as a handler for the United States Air Force and it had been almost a year since he last saw his partner Bakk, the duo worked together at Osan Air Base in South Korea 20 miles south of the DMZ.
"Being a dog handler in the military is the best job they have," said Cain.
The two were reunited in Boise thanks to the effort from American Humane who transported Bakk to Idaho so he could enjoy retirement with his new family.
"It is just a big honor to me to be able to escort this four-legged her home," said veterinarian Lesa Staubus of American Humane. "Just to see the look on his face when he was reunited with his handler was wonderful."
Cain called Bakk the best military dog he worked with and the two conducted patrols to keep the base safe.
"Those dogs are willing to put their lives on the line for you and that is something you can't replace," said Cain.
Now Bakk can enjoy retirement and some swimming might be in his future.
I don't think he's ever played in water so it is going to be fun to introduce him to that," said Cain.
American Humane brought two dogs back from South Korea in addition to Bakk and the organization also helps unite veterans who suffer from PTSD or TBI with a service dog to help them recover.
Here's a linkto their website.
