This week, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Payton May was reunited with a Belgian Malinois named Yyacob, a now-retired military dog the sergeant used to handle before being reassigned to another base in 2022.
When May found out Yyacob was retiring after seven years of service, knew he wanted to try to adopt the dog, whom he calls his “best friend.” May reached out to American Humane, an animal welfare organization known for reuniting Military Working Dogs with former handlers, for assistance – and the group came through.
After two-and-a-half years apart, the pair were reunited on Monday, just in time for the holidays.
Chris Saucedo/Getty Images for American Humane
May and, Yyacob, an explosives detection and patrol dog, served together for nine months in Iraq. They would check anyone entering the base for ammunition or explosives, and also carried out patrols and scanned vehicles together.
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According to a press release from American Humane, the pair completed the elite Patrol Explosive Detection Dog – Enhanced Course, an advanced program for police patrol and explosive detection dogs that teaches them to work effectively off-leash.
In Yyacob’s seven years of service, he protected fellow service members, civilians, and even presidents.
Chris Saucedo/Getty Images for American Humane
“We are grateful for the opportunity to bring military working dog Yyacob home and reunite him with his best friend,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. The organization will also provide Yyacob with free veterinary care for life.
“American Humane is honored to help give this courageous canine the comfortable retirement he deserves after seven years of distinguished service to our country,” Ganzert added.
May is set to be stationed next in Italy, and he’s looking forward to again being close to Yyacob, even if he hogs the bed.