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SAN ANTONIO — After three years apart, a military dog and his former handler reunited in San Antonio!
Last month, “Frenky,” a 10-year-old German Shepherd, retired from the United States Army after eight years of service. As a retirement gift, Frenky received a heartwarming reunion with his previous handler, Army Staff Sergeant Kristin Vanderzanden.
The duo previously served together for more than four years, including a 9-month combat tour in Afghanistan and a 10-month tour in Iraq. Frenky was trained in explosive detection and bite work. His calm demeanor under pressure also earned him the respect and appreciation from the Special Forces team they were assigned to.
The two also completed approximately 20 Secret Service missions, protecting VIPs like the U.S. president, vice president, first lady and foreign dignitaries.
Frenky and Kristin were separated in 2021 when Kristin was sent to Fort Drum in northern New York. Frenzy remained at Fort Johnson in Louisiana. Kristin said leaving Frenky was “like leaving a child behind.” Kristin is currently one of two drill sergeants for the entire U.S. Army’s military working dog program.
When Kristin heard the news of Frenky’s retirement, she reached out to the American Humane Society to help bring him home. Kristin had heard about the AHS from a friend who used the program to reunite with his own military dog.
The AHS covered all transportation costs regarding the reunion and even picked up Frenky from Fort Johnson and escorted him to his new San Antonio home with Kristin. The AHS will also provide free veterinary care for the rest of Frenky’s life.
“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 years of distinguished service to our country.”
Kristin said Frenky will now have the chance to be a normal dog, relax on the couch and live in a home instead of a kennel.