Robert Lebron, a former United States Army Ranger from the Bronx, in New York City, is trying to pick up the pieces after a violent incident on Mother’s Day left him injured, and his young service dog missing.

Caught on surveillance video, the veteran says he was stalking a stroll early Sunday morning with eight-month-old puppy Mala — from nearby Poe Park to their apartment building — when they were attacked from behind by two men.

One of them tackled Lebron. The other stole the leash, and ran off with the dog.

The victim believes the suspect is an ex-boyfriend of his wife, who says also attacked him a month ago.

However, the hateful vengeance seems like a mere footnote when compared to the fact that he is now estranged from his four-legged companion.

“What she gives me I can’t get from someone else; not a therapist or a family member or my friend. It’s unconditional love.”

“It was one of the most amazing things that has happened to me in a long time. Because I can take her everywhere. To the store. To church. To the hospital.”

Lebron joined the military shortly after the September 11 attacks. During his service, he was deployed to Afghanistan.