Retired Military Dog Reunites with Former Handler and Finds a Home for Thanksgiving

Retired military dog Yyacob and the canine's former handler, Payton May, reunited on Nov. 25 for the first time since their 2022 separation

A recently retired military dog was reunited with his longtime handler after two and a half years apart—just in time for Thanksgiving.

Eight-year-old Belgian Malinois Yyacob reunited with his former handler and U.S. Army Staff Sergeant, Payton May, in San Antonio, Texas, on Monday, Nov. 25, animal welfare organization American Humane shared in a press release with PEOPLE. This reunion was the first time the old friends had seen each other since their separation in 2022

The pair served nearly two years together, including a nine-month deployment in Iraq, before parting ways when Sgt. May was reassigned to Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in Texas, leaving Yyacob at Fort Drum Air Force Base in New York.

Yyacob served in the U.S. Army for seven years, acting as a patrol dog and detecting explosives to protect civilians, service members, and even former presidents.

Sgt. May formed a tight bond with Yyacob, as the two spent 24/7 by each other’s side overseas, sharing a room and a twin-sized bed. While on duty, the pair would scan vehicles and check individuals entering the base for ammunition or explosives.

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During their time together, the pair completed the Patrol Explosive Detection Dog — Enhanced Course, an advanced 60-day program for police patrol and explosive detection dogs that teaches them to work effectively off-leash. The course is taught only three times a year with ten military working dog teams.

When Sgt. May heard that Yyacob had retired from military service, he contacted American Humane for help reuniting with his old canine partner. The organization assisted Sgt. May's friend, fellow K-9 handler Isaac, in reuniting with his retired canine partner earlier in 2024, so Sgt. May was hopeful the nonprofit could help him, too. American Humane agreed to assist and helped Sgt. May arrange to bring Yyacob home.

"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. "American Humane is honored to help give this courageous canine the comfortable retirement he deserves after seven years of distinguished service to our country."

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Following their reunion, Sgt. May plans to bring Yyacob to Italy, where he will be stationed next, where the dog can enjoy a relaxing retirement.

In a heartwarming gesture, American Humane will be covering the transportation costs for the trip.

The organization will give Yyacob free veterinary care for the foreseeable future.