Congratulations to SDF’s 3 New York-based Canine Disaster Search Teams that achieved Certification this weekend!
On Friday, November 4, 2016, three SDF-trained Search Teams achieved State Certification during evaluation at TEEX in College Station, TX. Veteran team Greg Gould & Dax re-certified while brand new teams Brian Girard & Keila and Chris Johnson & Charlie certified for the very first time.
SDF Executive Director Debra Tosch was on-hand and shared her pride in the teams’ quick certification due to their dedicated training regimen:
“Watching these New York teams test, it was obvious they had put a lot of hard work and preparation in getting ready for this big day. They knew the rules, were great advocates of their dogs and did an amazing job on the test. I couldn’t help but feel proud when the certificates were handed out and the handlers were able to relax and let this important accomplishment soak in. I have no doubt they will be able to do their job when the call for help comes. Texas Task Force 1 and the evaluators were great and having the veterinary support from Texas A & M was a wonderful bonus.”
Now that they are certified, these teams will serve the state of New York, responding to disasters such as missing persons, building collapses and flooding such as Hurricane Matthew in October.
“Taking our Type II certification test Friday at TEEX was probably one of the most stressful things I have done in a long time. Being able to look at it as another training day really helped calm the nerves as did watching Charlie and seeing he was having the time of his life! He got to "play" for 4 hours straight! Once we were able to complete the test and obtain our certification I was elated! Looking back, I'm not sure why I was nervous. Charlie is an awesome dog who enjoys what he does. I look forward to our future together as a team. Thank you for all the support we have received from the trainers and staff at the foundation as well as the other handlers we have been able to meet and network along the way.” – Chris Johnson, Handler of Search Dog Charlie