Army Vet Reunited with Military Dog After 3 Years Apart—Thanks to a Special Program
Grab the tissues—because this reunion is a tail-wagging, heartwarming masterpiece.
Army veteran Kristin Vanderzanden recently reunited with her former military working dog, Frenky, after more than three years apart. The two served side by side in Afghanistan, and completed 20 missions with the Secret Service, building a bond that only those who’ve served together truly understand.
But like many working military dogs, Frenky couldn’t come along when Kristin was transferred to a new base. It was a painful goodbye, but one that’s all too common for service members.
That changed in January, when Frenky officially retired from active duty—and Kristin made it clear: she wanted him back.
Enter the Heroes at the Humane Society
Through their Military Working Dog Reunification Program, the Humane Society of the United States stepped in to make the reunion happen. They coordinated Frenky’s transfer and even pledged to cover all of his veterinary care for the rest of his life.
Their mission? To make sure these canine heroes are not just remembered, but truly cared for, especially by the people they served with.
A Homecoming Years in the Making
Kristin says the moment they were reunited was emotional and overwhelming—Frenky remembered her immediately, bounding toward her with all the excitement of a long-lost best friend.
“He’s not just a dog,” she said. “He’s my partner. We’ve been through everything together.”
Final Thoughts
Frenky now gets to enjoy his well-earned retirement with the person who knows and loves him best. And thanks to organizations like the Humane Society, more military dogs like Frenky are getting the happy endings they deserve.
