Bady, a 10-year-old military dog, retires and reunites with former handler. It’s the beginning of his carefree life filled with lots of belly rubs!
Military dogs are known for providing invaluable support to the armed forces. Their heightened senses and agility allow them to conduct search and rescue operations, detect explosives, and act as first line of defense. These dogs are often with their handlers who they form deep bonds with. But as the popular reminder goes, a handler shouldn’t get too attached to a dog, because their journey as partners won’t last forever. However, the story of Bady, a former military dog, goes against this reminder. His bond with his handler only gets stronger, even after retiring from the service.
It all started when Bady, a 10-year-old German Shepherd was paired with his handler, Technical Sergeant Adamma Bilal. They worked together in South Korea and was stationed at Kusan Air Base. Bady served as an explosive detection dog and a patrol, and he also accompanied Sgt. Bilal daily. The bond between the two was obvious as wherever Sgt. Bilal went, Bady was also there. After two and a half years of working together, they had to face the reality and go separate ways. Sgt. Bilal was reassigned and moved to Florida, while Bady remained in South Korea.
The Enduring Bond Between Bady and His Handler
Despite being away from Bady, Sgt. Bilal never forgot about his canine partner. Six months later, he got the news that Bady finally retired from service. But where do retired military dogs go? Ideally, in a loving home where they can enjoy the “couch life.” The best scenario is that they get reunited with their handlers. Sgt. Bilal was determined to make that best scenario a reality, and so he sought help from Mission K9 Rescue, an organization committed to rehoming military dogs.
Arrangements have been made, including transporting Bady from South Korea to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Sgt. Bilal waited at the airport and hurried to set the dog free as soon as he saw his crate being brought out. It was a joyful moment for everyone; Bady recognized his handler and rolled over to get some belly rubs. This marked the beginning of a relaxing life for the former military dog. The best part? He gets to spend it with his favorite human.
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Bady’s Life Post-Duty
Sgt. Bilal got asked about his plans for Bady’s retirement, and he said what every retired military dog deserves (and most likely wants). According to him, Bady is now free to do whatever he wants. No more work, just living on the beach with him. So that’s exactly what happened.
Bady now lives a life full of love and comfort. He has settled into his new home in Florida and loves going on long beach walks. If he’s not outside, he lounges on the couch and is happily receiving all the belly rubs he could get from Sgt. Bilal. The two continues to make memories as they enter a new chapter of their lives.
Bady’s life after serving the military shows what’s possible for other working canines. It’s also an encouragement for others to consider adopting retired military dogs, because just like shelter dogs, they deserve to be in loving homes. There might be differences, however, between the adoption process involving military canines and the ones found in shelters.
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From The Club
Military working dogs are faithful companions, especially to their handlers. These dogs might be serious and in “work mode” almost all of the time, but I can’t help but picture that they’re as affectionate as household pets. Bady proved it when he playfully rolled over and ask for belly rubs during his heartwarming reunion with Sgt. Bilal. After serving the country with acts of bravery, it’s indeed time for Bady to enjoy the rest of his golden years. I’m happy he gets to do it with his former handler turned parent!
