FORT DRUM, N.Y. -- Before 2000, military working dogs often were euthanized after they were deemed no longer fit for duty. Since then, legislation was passed that clearly outlined procedures for military working dogs no longer able to fulfill the mission of the Army. Under Robby's Law, euthanization is only an option when medically necessary or for public safety.
Since the passing of the law, emphasis was placed on offering retired dogs a chance for adoption into the civilian world after passing several behavioral and psychological exams given by a veterinarian. These highly trained and loyal animals can make excellent pets for those who desire companionship and enjoy working with dogs.
Bodo, a patrol explosive detection dog, was retired by 91st Military Police Battalion and adopted by a dual-military Family assigned to Fort Drum.
He reached the end of his career due to weakness in his hips and legs. Bodo is still in good health; however, he has lost the required endurance to meet the demands of many MWD missions.
This presented the opportunity for Bodo to be put up for adoption to the public. Military working dogs are typically adopted in-house within the dog handler community. Some former handlers take pride in transitioning their working relationships with their dogs to making them part of their Family.
However, Bodo's former handlers were unable to adopt him due to other circumstances, and 1st Lt. Patrick Hartzel, executive officer of A Battery, 4th Battalion, 25th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, and his spouse took advantage of the unique prospect to bring a retired military working dog into their home.
"We just really wanted a dog, and he needed a home," said 1st Lt. Toni Hartzel, executive officer of 543rd Military Police Company, 91st Military Police Battalion. "It was just the right thing to do."
Bodo began his service at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio. After his initial training, he was assigned to Fort Drum to begin serving in the U.S. Army. During his career, he deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom once and Operation Iraqi Freedom twice.
While stateside, Bodo spent countless hours training in patrolling and detection techniques to prepare to keep American Soldiers safe overseas and at home. He also completed several missions with the Secret Service and the CIA to ensure the safety of the nation's highest ranking leaders.
The 10-year-old German shepherd served eight years of active duty, to include three years in combat zones. As with most Soldiers facing retirement, the next challenge for Bodo was finding a new way of life after the military.
The Hartzels said Bodo is adjusting well to his new life outside the military with them, and the whole Family is looking forward to many happy years together.
(Atkins serves with 227th Military Police Detachment, 91st Military Police Battalion.)
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