x
Breaking News
More () »

Retired military dog reunited with his former partner

Military working dog Kkeaton returned to his former handler’s side. They worked together for three years to protect troops at Camp Pendleton.

SAN ANTONIO — Aaron Stice, a Marine Corps veteran, trained with Kkeaton when he was a police officer at Camp Pendleton. They protected troops together for three years. Stice is currently a canine trainer with the Lackland Air Force Base MWD program. KENS 5 was there for the reunion that was held at Cavendar Toyota’s parking lot.

“He was named after one of my friends that was killed in action in our last deployment together,” Stice said. “I missed him for 7 months. It was a very emotional time. I couldn't be happier to have him back. Finally give him what he deserves. Sleep on the couch every day.”

Credit: KENS 5
Aaron Stice and Kkeaton

Kkeaton is a Belgian Malinois. He was trained to be an explosive detection dog. He sustained a neck injury during training and it led to his medical retirement.

"He had behavior issues. He was a little aggressive. You can see now he's not who he used to be. So, just a lot of love and training went into it to get him where he's at," Stice said. “I didn't expect to get him this quick. He'll actually be 7 on the 27th of this month, which is fairly young for a dog to retire."

Credit: Aaron Stice
Kkeaton was trained to be an explosive detector dog.

American Humane, the country's first national humane organization, brought Kkeaton from San Diego to San Antonio. The organization helps reconnect retired military dogs and their former handlers.

“He’s a very serious dog. But when he saw his best friend, he became unglued. It was joyous to me. I've fallen for this dog in the days I’ve had him. But I can't tell you the joy I feel putting him in the hands of the person he really belongs to,” said Lesa Staubus, a veterinarian with American Humane.

Credit: Aaron Stice
Aaron Stice with Kkeaton

Kkeaton will get two sisters. The Stice family has another Belgian Malinois and a red heeler. A local business, Mike's Dog Store, gave a gift card and a bag of goodies to the Stice family. Cavendar Toyota presented American Humane with a $2,000 check to show their appreciation for all military working dogs.

POPULAR ON KENS5.COM: 

Second victim in Elmendorf explosion leaves behind wife, son and legacy

SAPD officer injured during confrontation with burglary suspect

VIDEO: New Kids on the Block perform tribute to Selena

'Carol Burnett Show' star Tim Conway dead at 85

Arkansas woman gets 15 years for posing as sheriff, releasing boyfriend from jail

Before You Leave, Check This Out