SHAWNEE, Okla. (AP) — Two German Shepherd-mix dogs brought from Iraq to Oklahoma through the efforts of a U.S. Navy sailor are faring well.

Petty Officer John Carter led the campaign to bring the Iraqi-born dogs, Charlie and Bandit, to the safety of the U.S. The dogs arrived Tuesday in Oklahoma City and then traveled to the home of Carter's parents in Shawnee. They are caring for the dogs until Carter's family in San Diego can move out of an apartment.

Carter tells the Shawnee News-Star the dogs aren't sure what to think about having grass underneath them, as they walked mostly on desert sand in Iraq. He says the dogs are eating well and adjusting to Oklahoma's climate.

Carter met the dogs at the Navy base in Iraq where his unit was deployed.