Retired Military Dog Don Returned to Former Military Handler: A Look at Their Heartwarming Reunion
The bond between a dog and its owner can certainly warm any heart. But there’s something particularly special when it involves a working relationship between human and animal that has blossomed into lifelong love. That was the case for military dog handler Carlos Aranda and the first dog he ever worked with,: Don. Now that the pup is retired, the two have been brought together again, this time for a more personal matter. Keep reading to find out more about the adorable reunion between the military dog and his former handler.
Who is the military dog Don?
Don, a 6-year-old Belgian Malinois, is a military working dog at Edwards Air Force Base and was designated MWD Bravo 069. The pup had been trained to sniff out explosions and participated in secret service missions and foot patrols.
According to the American Kennel Club, the breed is known to be smart and confident, which makes them great working pups for active duty military personnel. Plus, they forge an unbreakable bond with their humans, so it’s a guarantee that they’ll always have your back!
Unfortunately, his impressive military career was cut short when the dog was injured last year. Though he healed from it, the decision was made for him to retire. In July, Don was awarded an Air Force commendation medal to honor him for his service.
Watch a clip from the adorable ceremony below:
At the time, the pup lived at the kennels at the base, but it wouldn’t be long before he would be off to his new home with an old friend!
A look at the bond between military dog Don and his handler
Aranda, a Master at Arms in the U.S. Navy, works as a military dog handler out of NAS Lemoore, reports The Sacramento Bee. He shared that when the pair initially came together, he was a first-time handler, and the pup was quite the veteran. But that didn’t stop them from forming a strong bond.
“He helped me become the handler that I am today,” Aranda told the paper. “He holds a special place in my heart.”
So, when Don was injured, it was only fitting that his former handler would become his forever companion after retirement. The medical bills and care costs for taking care of the dog were sure to be hefty, so Aranda was referred to the New York-based nonprofit Paws of War, which offers support to military members and their pets, plus provides companion animals to service members.
Not only did the organization promise to help cover any current and future veterinary bills, but they also figured out the transportation to get Don from the base in Norfolk, Virginia, to Aranda in California. After two and a half days of driving, it was time for the duo to reunite. (Click through for another heartwarming story about a veteran and her K9).
How did their reunion go?
On August 26, reporters gathered at a conference room in a Hampton Inn to watch as the old friends reconnected again. Don, whom Aranda calls Donnie, was quick to walk straight to his former handler.
Aranda playfully called out the pup’s gray muzzle before offering up some well-deserved belly scratches. Donnie was a happy recipient and likely would have let his new owner shower him with affection all day!
“It feels like home,” Aranda commented on their reunion. “He feels like home.”
The two activities he’s looking forward to most with his four-legged friend? Trips to the beach and the dog park. But he expects Donnie will get as much enjoyment out of a chance to kick back, relax and be a couch potato now that he’s retired.
See more of their heartwarming reunion in the video below:
For more trending stories, keep reading!
Dairy Queen Just Dropped Its Fall Blizzards Menu With New and Returning Flavors, Plus a BOGO Offer
Oasis Is Back! Everything to Know About the ’90s Britpop Band’s Upcoming Tour and Infamous Rivalry
The Prettiest Libraries in America According to TikTok: See What Makes These 5 Buildings So Stunning
