The bond that forms between a working military dog and their handler is unlike any other. That’s why it can be so difficult for both the dog and their mate when they have to part from each other after working together.
During her service in Korea, Senior Aviation Officer Jenna Canada worked with a German Shepherd named Akim. Together, they patrol their airbases, conduct vehicle searches, and work with the Republic of Korea Air Force Special Forces. But their personal relationship went much deeper than the work they did together.
A Stick Handler Next to Her Dog
During one scary time while on duty, Akim swallowed a bee, which resulted in a severe allergic reaction. Akim was barely responding. Without a moment’s hesitation, Jenna scooped up the 70-pound dog and took it to the vet.
“I don’t care about me. I care about my dog. I just wanted to make sure he was as comfortable as possible. No one will care about him as much as I do,” Jenna explained practically.
While Akim recovered with quick veterinary intervention, Jenna slept in the crib with him, always beside him.
“No words can explain how I felt in that moment like… I didn’t cry at first, I was just like, God, I need this dog to live.”
From there, it became clear to everyone how important Akim was to Jenna.
A life of love and relaxation awaits Akim
Their professional partnership ends in 2021, but the forever bond between Jenna and Akim remains. So when Akim retires in 2022, Humane America stepped in to ensure that he could retire in the arms of a loved one.
An initiative that the organization is working on is helping veteran dogs end their careers happily and comfortably: back to their old army managers. However, transporting military dogs was not the easiest process in the past. It took weeks to organize a trip home for Akim.
Regardless of the work involved, American Humane helped with shipping Akim from South Korea to Albuquerque, New Mexico. Statement from American Humane describes efforts to bring retired Akim to Jenna:
“Our military team coordinated this reunification effort with SrA Jenna, the US military, and our partners in transporting livestock to bring MWD Akim from Osan Air Base, South Korea. , to Albuquerque, New Mexico. To ensure Akim’s health and safety throughout his journey home, American Humane’s animal care specialist, with the supervision of our Director of Veterinary Medicine, was involved at every step of the way. . “
Akim’s golden years with his family
After nearly a year of separation, Jenna and Akim finally reunited on July 12, 2022. Now, this guy no longer works, just needs love from the person he cares about the most.
“I wanted him to see everything,” Jenna said. “I wanted him to experience the free life. I want him to walk the river, go swimming and just live his best free life. He still deserves to see the world and have fun. “
Like One video aired on KOAT shows, both Akim and Jenna are excited to be back together again.
Retired military dogs often experience health problems related to their service. American Humane has also committed to include “Akim’s lifelong veterinary care. “
In a statement, Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane, explained:
“We at American Humane honor the lifesaving contributions of all veterans, including the four-legged military dogs who risked their lives to courageously serve our country. We are delighted that Akim will receive a well-deserved retirement, next to the person who loves him the most. “
Happy retirement Akim and happy adoption day to both the hero dog and his wonderful manager Jenna!
Featured pictures: Facebook
