K-9 veteran “Frenky,” a 10-year-old German shepherd trained in explosive detection and bite work, was reunited with his handler, Army Staff Sgt. Kristin Vanderzanden, after being apart for three years. The American Humane Society’s Military Working Dog Reunification program brought them together in San Antonio. Frenky served with Vanderzanden from 2017 to 2021, including combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, before retiring in January. Vanderzanden was Frenky’s first handler in the Army’s K-9 program, where she also served as a drill sergeant.
During their time together, Vanderzanden and Frenky shared a close bond that went beyond their assigned roles. The K-9’s composure during a mission in Afghanistan, where they encountered sniper fire and mortar rounds and several US casualties, allowed Frenky to continue searching for explosives. Vanderzanden described Frenky as having a “sweet, goofy personality” that made him a mascot for the US Special Forces team. Frenky even opted to sleep on the floor of Vanderzanden’s room during their deployment in Afghanistan rather than in his kennel.
Vanderzanden and Frenky completed 20 Secret Service missions together, protecting dignitaries and the president and first lady. However, in 2021, Vanderzanden was reassigned to Fort Drum in New York, separating her from Frenky. She recalled feeling devastated leaving Frenky behind at Fort Johnson in Louisiana, likening it to leaving a child. The anticipation of reuniting with Frenky grew as Vanderzanden heard rumors of his possible retirement due to old age.
The American Humane Society’s program covered Frenky’s travel from Fort Johnson to San Antonio to reunite him with Vanderzanden. Additionally, the AHS will cover all veterinary costs for the rest of Frenky’s life, allowing him to live out his retirement in comfort. Vanderzanden expressed her excitement at giving Frenky the opportunity to enjoy life outside of a kennel, relaxing on the couch and living in a home. Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of AHS, praised Frenky for his invaluable contributions to the country and emphasized the importance of honoring military working dogs like him.
The American Humane Society aims to recognize the lifesaving contributions of all veterans, including military working dogs like Frenky. The program works to reunite retired military working dogs with their handlers and provide them with the care and support they need in their retirement. Frenky will join Vanderzanden’s other dog, Cora, as a member of her family, where he can enjoy a well-deserved retirement after years of service. The reunion between Frenky and Vanderzanden serves as a heartwarming example of the strong bond that can develop between a handler and their K-9 partner through shared experiences and dedication to serving their country.
