After three long years apart, a brave military dog named Frenky has finally found his way back home into the arms of his beloved handler, Army Staff Sergeant Kristin Vanderzanden.
The 10-year-old German Shepherd Frenky stands apart from most canines. He worked with Kristin through every challenging situation for more than four years of their service time. Their combined efforts included conducting missions under combat conditions while guarding essential individuals that included the U.S. President and First Lady.
The connection shared between them extended beyond military protocol. It was personal. Frenky represented Kristin’s only consistent support during all her life experiences according to her words. Frenky stood by Kristin through every dangerous moment of her duty in Afghanistan and Iraq as well as through endless deployments and long shifts at base while maintaining his calm demeanor and unwavering loyalty to her.
But in 2021, things changed. Kristin received orders to move to Fort Drum, New York while Frenky had to remain stationed at Fort Johnson Louisiana. The goodbye wasn’t easy. Kristin fought to control her emotions when she expressed that parting felt like surrendering her child to another world. She chose to stay away from Frenky to prevent herself from worsening the already difficult separation process.
She always carried a small hope in her heart that one day they’d be together again. Still, she doubted Frenky would ever retire. He loved his job, and he was built for it.
A tiny glow of togetherness existed within her heart as she prayed for their eventual reunion. Despite her belief Frenky would never stop his service as a military career dog. Frenky deeply loved his military career because it perfectly matched his abilities.
The summer of 2024 brought Kristin surprising news about Frenky’s retirement decision. The moment she learned Frenky was retiring she immediately contacted the American Humane Society for assistance.
The Military Working Dog Reunification Program of the organization enabled them to retrieve Frenky home. The organization handled all costs from transporting him to different states while guaranteeing lifetime veterinary support at no cost for him.
Frenky’s arrival in San Antonio brought forth deep feelings among everyone. He transitioned smoothly into his new residence where he lived as a complete family member instead of continuing his working duty.
Kristin explained to us that one of her main goals is to offer Frenky the dog lifestyle he missed out on after his military career ended.
Frenky who used to show extreme bravery during combat operations now takes joy from strolling in parks under sunshine and treats himself to café visits and absolutely no restrictions on sleeper time. Kristin describes this experience as “the couch life” since she wants to provide complete peace and love for Frenky.
The American Humane Society’s Military Working Dog Reunification program accepts donations from people who wish to support efforts that help former military dogs and their handlers rejoin each other. Every donation contributes to bringing another deserving and loyal dog closer to their well-deserved home.
Being reunited should be recognized as the most heroic mission since it unites broken hearts after military service.
