Kyle Smith, a U.S. Air Force member, showed his devotion and affection for his loyal German Shepherd named Bodza as the canine approached the end of his life. Smith stood by Bodzaโs side until the very end, reflecting the strong bond they had built over the years through various shared experiences. Smith couldnโt bear to be away from his beloved dog as he faced his final moments.
Partnering for Life Kyle Smith and Bodza were more than just handler and dog, they were lifelong partners. Both serving in the U.S. Air Force, they completed a 189-day security mission in Kyrgyzstan together. Bodza, an 11-year-old German Shepherd, had been a dedicated explosive detection dog, saving countless lives during operations in Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, and Kuwait. Smith and Bodzaโs friendship started in 2012 and lasted a lifetime. Bodza was not just a working dog; he was a loyal companion to Smith. The duo shared a bond that would last forever. Smith shared, โI loved working with him because he taught me a lot โ patience as a young handler, and how to understand that this job isnโt just about you.โ The lessons the devoted dog taught Smith and his selflessness left an indelible mark on Smithโs life.
ย The Retirement and Adoption After years of devotion to the U.S. Air Force, Bodza retired from military service in 2016. Kyle Smith adopted Bodza, and the loyal dog finally had a chance to relax and enjoy his well-deserved retirement. Smith provided Bodza with a comfortable home and all the love and care he deserved. Battling Degenerative Myelopathy In the fall of 2017, Bodza was diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy, a progressive disease affecting his spinal cord. Despite the diagnosis, Smith refused to give up on his furry friend. He did everything in his power to make Bodzaโs remaining days comfortable and enjoyable.
ย A Final Farewell As Bodzaโs health continued to decline, it became clear to Smith that it was time to say goodbye to his faithful friend. In March 2018, Smith made the difficult decision to put Bodza to sleep. He was by Bodzaโs side until the very end, ensuring that his beloved companion was not alone in his final moments. Honoring Bodzaโs Memory To honor Bodzaโs memory, Smith held a touching memorial service for his furry friend. The service was attended by fellow military personnel, animal lovers, and members of the community. Additionally, Smith had Bodzaโs ashes placed inside a custom-made urn shaped like a German Shepherd, which he proudly displayed in his home.
Even though Smith and Bodza were serious about their work, they still found time to enjoy some playful moments together. Smith fondly remembered how Bodza was a fun-loving and gentle dog. One of their favourite pastimes was watching the horses in the stables right beside their obedience yard. When the horses were out, Bodza would run alongside the fence line, making it impossible for Smith to continue with training. Smith also found it hilarious how Bodza had a habit of barking at his own shadow. To tease him, Smith would sometimes imitate a shadow or pretend to be a rabbit.
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ย Eventually, the time came for Bodza to retire and be adopted. Although it was difficult for Smith to say goodbye, he knew that Bodza needed a loving home where he could live out his golden years. After a thorough vetting process, Bodza was adopted by a family who would cherish him just as much as Smith did. Though they may have parted ways, the memories of their playful moments together will always remain with Smith.
When Bodzaโs retirement was approaching, Smith immediately offered him a loving home. Without hesitation, he took the loyal pooch home the same day. Bodzaโs faithfulness extended beyond his duty and he became Smithโs constant companion. He would follow Smith everywhere, and at night he would lay his head down beside Smithโs bed to bid him good night. Their relationship evolved into an unbreakable bond of friendship. However, in the summer of 2016, Bodza was diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy, a condition that affects a dogโs spinal cord and is incurable. As the disease progressed, Bodzaโs hind limbs were no longer functional, and he couldnโt stand or walk without assistance. The stress on his body had become too much, and even using the restroom had become a task. Smith knew it was time to make the painful decision to put Bodza to rest.
ย With a heavy heart, he took Bodza to the Fort Bliss Vet Clinic in El Paso, Texas, accompanied by nine of his coworkers who also loved Bodza. They made sure to create a peaceful environment, laying a soft blanket on the floor, and providing Bodza with comfort, love, and peace in his final moments.
As Bodza neared the end of his life, Smith held him tenderly, providing comfort until his final breath. The experience was overwhelming for Smith, who felt a rush of emotions as he said goodbye to his dear friend. Despite the sadness of the moment, Bodza seemed content, smiling at Smith in appreciation for the love and care he had received. Smith found solace in the support of his coworkers, who offered kind words and gestures during this difficult time. His boss draped a flag over Bodza as a tribute, bringing a sense of peace and heartache to Smith all at once. Throughout their time together, Smith learned valuable life lessons from Bodza and their bond will always hold a special place in his heart. Even as he faces the pain of letting go, Smith is reminded of the unwavering love and loyalty that a dog can offer.
