Photo By Airman 1st Class Luisa Dugan | A312 Zak, 87th Security Forces Squadron military working dog, looks at the camera...... read more read more
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JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. - “Good boy…” Typically a phrase associated with praise for a military working dog (MWD) doing bite work or detection training. Today, this is spoken by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Tara Cummins, 87th Security Forces Squadron K-9 handler, to calm A-312, Zak, 87th Security Forces Squadron MWD, while receiving blood work prior to a surgical procedure at the Eakins Veterinary Treatment Facility on Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., Oct. 3, 2024. Prior to retirement, Zak is being neutered as a first step in introducing him to life outside the military.
In order to serve ferociously, the MWD is treated and cared for as an invaluable asset to the Department of Defense. From detecting landmines and improvised explosive devices with only a few sniffs, to fearlessly charging into the heat of battle to incapacitate enemy combatants, the role of canines in the military has proven to be invaluable.
“Because of the capabilities that canines provide naturally because of instinct, such as their desire to chase, hunt and play,” said Cummins. “The military realized that can be capitalized on to benefit those serving and by keeping them safe."
To work beside and care for these warriors is an honor.
“I’d say working with the MWDs is my favorite part of my job. Each one has a distinct personality and quirks that is fun to see.” said U.S. Army Major Andrew Sahol, JB MDL branch veterinary services chief. “I’m super fortunate that when a MWD comes in the door, I have almost any resource at my disposal to make sure they get the best care they deserve.”
Once unable to serve due to health or behavioral issues, MWDs go through a disposition process where they are certified as retired and relieved of duty.
All dogs are properly medically or surgically managed before they are adopted so that they can live comfortably the rest of their lives in retirement, with previous handlers receiving priority. There are multiple factors that are considered when determining what the next chapter in a MWD story is post-retirement.
Potential adopters are screened to make sure they would be a good fit for the dog. For transparency, the reason for retirement is considered to ensure the adopter is willing and able to provide for these dogs after a life of service. This includes being able to manage any physical ailments and behavioral requirements as well.
Zak has degenerative myelopathy and has been relieved of duty. Additionally, Zak suffers from PTSD after 42 dog years of service to the DOD and two deployments. His disposition process concluded that certain behaviors displayed could potentially make him unsuitable for adoption if owners also had small animals or children.
Fortunately, thanks to the relentless efforts of his past handler, Zak received a heroes welcome at the K-9 PTSD Center in Seekonk, Mass. The center creates an environment for the four-legged heroes who have been impacted by their service to their country and communities.
Zak will live out the rest of his days at the center as a part of their Furever Program. He and other dogs like him, are in a safe place with caretakers who specialize in that field.
| Date Taken: | 12.13.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 12.13.2024 12:11 |
| Story ID: | 487408 |
| Location: | JB MDL, NEW JERSEY, US |
| Web Views: | 25 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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