SELMA, Calif. (KMPH) — A military working dog handler is now reunited with the first dog he worked with years ago in Norfolk, Virginia – this time for good.
“I knew I wanted to take care of him,” says Carlos Aranda, now stationed at NAS Lemoore.
Aranda says he first met the Belgian Malinois named “Donnie” in Norfolk, Virginia.
He was in the process of launching the Navy’s working dog handler program.
Donnie was trained as an explosives detection dog.
“They give you a dog that knows what he’s doing,” says Aranda. “He helped me become the handler I am today. He showed me how to do it. It’s crazy to think that a dog could do something like that.”
The two worked together for three years and Donnie even led raids to protect the President of the United States.
The last time they saw each other was a year and a half ago.
Aranda moved to Lemoore.
Donnie continued working, but sustained a leg injury and had to retire for health reasons.
When Aranda got the news, he knew it was time to go see Donnie.
He turned to the New York-based nonprofit organization Paws of War for help.
“This is something so meaningful for our brave soldiers who develop a close bond with these animals,” said Niki Dawson, Paws of War Logistics Director.
Dawson says the group handles the transportation of military dogs across the country – and much more.
“These animals are retired, either for medical reasons or because of their advanced age, which means they can no longer perform their duties. This means high veterinary bills. We will provide Donnie with the care he needs for the rest of his life,” says Dawson.
The peace of mind helped Aranda prepare for Donnie’s arrival.
On Wednesday, Donnie ran into a room in Selma – and into Aranda’s arms.
“What’s up, buddy? What’s up!” Aranda said, noticing Donny’s gray patch around his mouth. “Oh my God, he’s gotten a lot older!”
Older, yes.
But playful and clever as ever.
Together they demonstrated various commands that Donnie knows.
Later, Donnie chased a toy.
“I’m excited to take him to the beach. I’m excited to get him a doggie cup,” Aranda said. “I want to take him to the dog park.”
Aranda says his commitment to Lemoore will last about two more years, and hopes to move to San Diego with Donnie after that.
Dawson says the organization also trains and rehomes shelter dogs to help war veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder.
The group is constantly looking for volunteers and carers and is financed through donations.
If you would like to help, click here.
