VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif. — Veterinary Readiness Activity, San Diego personnel SGT Baxter and Dr. Zaboly delivered urgent medical treatment to MWD Nico J319, a three-year-old German Shepherd assigned to the USN Port Hueneme MWD Kennels, on April 7, 2026.
MWD Nico was admitted with acute respiratory distress. Following diagnostic testing, the Port Hueneme Veterinary Services team identified an abscess within the oral cavity as the underlying cause. SGT Baxter and Dr. Zaboly administered targeted medical care, addressing the condition and enabling Nico’s rapid recovery.
Their swift response and medical expertise ensured that MWD Nico returned to Category I status, maintaining his deployability and operational readiness. The intervention highlighted the team’s commitment to supporting the health and mission capability of military working dogs assigned to critical security roles. Photo: SGT Jade Baxter (68T).