Reunited, and it feels so good!
A dog named Bogi and Sergeant Angela Cardone from the U.S. Marine Corps is back in each other’s arms!
The two met in 2017 in Iwakuni, Japan, at the Marine Corps Air Station where five-year-old Bogi and the 22-year-old young woman were training so that the adorable Belgian Malinois could master her tasks that entailed narcotics detection, safety sweeps, and vehicle searches. They did this for 15 months, and it was unquestionable that the dynamic duo could form a strong bond. In fact, Sgt. Cardone already considers Bogi to be her “daughter” and “best friend.”
Unfortunately, Sgt. Cardone had to be reassigned to Hawaii, so the two had to be separated, and she was unable to bid Bogi farewell before she left to take on her new role. And for 18 months, the 22-year-old feared she won’t see her furry pal ever again. In an interview, Sgt. Cardone disclosed how she felt as if a piece of her was missing as she spent some time away from the canine.
And on June 2020, the young woman was informed that Bogi would be medically retiring because of a neck injury. She immediately knew that she wanted to give the darling dog a permanent home. To achieve this, she turned to American Humane for assistance.
As the country’s primary and most prominent humane organization, American Humane is dedicated to guaranteeing animals’ protection and salvation. Their work includes a military program that aims to look after America’s diligent military dogs by helping their handlers reunite with their former canine partners by guiding them through the complicated adoption process. This includes tackling the red tape of transporting them internationally and covering their transfer and veterinary care costs.
The group worked wonders, enabling the much-awaited reunion between Sgt. Cardone and Bogi. Last month, on February 16th, after waiting for 18 months, Bogi was made into a permanent member of her life. The American Humane flew the lovable dog in from overseas—Bogi made his way into Sgt. Cardone’s arms after a two-day transport from Japan to Hawaii.
Sgt. Cardone says the moment she saw Bogi once again was indescribable, saying that she never fathomed that this day would come. She further describes the occasion to be “a really heartwarming type of feeling.”
And it was a homecoming fit for a celebrity indeed! Bogi was welcomed with hugs, leis, and toys from her fur-mommy upon her arrival. They both sprung into their new life together by stepping onto a magnificent Hawaiian beach. Sgt. Cardone adds how wonderful she felt to have Bogi with her like a huge weight has been lifted off her chest. She also shares how much she was looking forward to this moment ever since she left her.
And there is nobody happier at the reunion than American Humane themselves.
In a statement from Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of the organization, he said that they are honored to be part of the reunion between Bogi and her best friend, Sgt. Cardone. They also expressed their thrill at the idea of being able to give the dog the dignified and comfortable retirement that she deserves. They also lauded the pair for the sacrifice they have dedicated to the country and that bringing them back together is the least that they can do for them in return.
Enjoy your retirement amidst the beautiful Hawaiian sunsets and oceans, Bogi!
Source: American Humane / Facebook
