Team Info
Task Force: California Task Force 2
Agency: Los Angeles County Fire Department
Level: In training to certify
Search Dog Info
Breed: Labrador Retriever Mix
Sex: Male
Born: September 25, 2023
Recruited from a private donor
Sponsor: Tracy Tempest
Louis Gudiel’s desire to become a first responder stems from a long-held calling to help others during crises. This aspiration solidified during an eighth-grade ride-along on a fire truck. The idea of being there for people in their greatest need and making a real difference resonated deeply, and being a first responder and contributing to something larger than himself gives Louis a sense of purpose that continues to drive him.
While always intrigued by working dogs, Louis’s interest became more serious about nine years ago when he met search dog Cajun, partner to Josh Flores from LA County Fire, CA Task Force 2. Later, he met Sean Quigley from LA County Fire, Task Force 2, and his search dog Geno. Sean shared details about SDF’s program, including its operations, training, and the significant impact of these teams during disasters. Louis was immediately captivated by Sean’s passion and the strong bond he shared with his dog, leading Louis to pursue an application to SDF’s Handler’s Training Program.
Louis’s initial impression of Joey was that he was a young, energetic dog with great potential. He immediately recognized the dog’s drive, confidence, and playful intensity. While anticipating a challenge, Louis was excited by the possibilities. During their first interaction, Louis felt an immediate connection to Joey, recognizing the dog’s youthfulness, high energy, and eagerness to work as exactly what he sought in a partner. The dog’s positive attitude and Louis’s vision of him fitting in well with his family of Lab lovers solidified his hope for a match.
In the short term, Louis is focused on bonding with Joey, building trust, and establishing a strong working relationship. Achieving their certification evaluation and maintaining mission readiness are also immediate priorities. Louis is committed to continuous learning and training to support his and his partner’s development. Ensuring his partner’s health, well-being, and a happy, fulfilling life on and off duty are paramount.
When Joey’s owner relocated to Utah to start a new job and new family, he didn’t realize that his puppy would have so much energy and quickly became overwhelmed. He listed Joey for adoption in a local paper, and an SDF canine recruiter reached out to set up a meet and greet. The recruiter was impressed with Joey’s confidence and natural desire to hunt for a ball at such a young age and determined he would be a good candidate for SDF.
Once Joey arrived at our campus, if you didn’t see him coming, you’d definitely hear him, as this boy has one of the best and strongest alerts we’ve ever heard! A rowdy and confident boy who loves to work, Joey is a fast learner who looks like a pro, even searching in a new environment. After conquering foundation elements such as the 30-second bark alert, rubble, and emergency stop proficiencies, he worked on more challenging search problems and grew more confident in his abilities every day, quickly mastering agility and becoming an expert at the metal ladder and high plank.
Joey loves training and never fails to bring a smile to the faces of everyone he meets. We truly believe Joey was meant to be a working dog, and we can’t wait to see all he accomplishes in his future career. Joey was paired with Louis Gudiel of California Task Force 2 on April 5, 2025.