On July 27, 2018, we welcomed the three newest SDF Search Teams that graduated from our training program, joining our nation’s roster of canine heroes. Along with their new First Responder-Handlers, they are now taking their first steps in a career dedicated to serving the nation when disaster strikes.
SDF’s newest Canine Disaster Search Teams joining our nation’s disaster response network are:
Laura Denison & Search Dog Flyer (Nebraska Task Force 1)
Scott Hofstetter & Search Dog Amber (Nebraska Task Force 1)
Jason Jasgur & Search Dog Ruffy (Los Angeles Fire Department/California Task Force 1)
Search Dog graduates Flyer, Amber and Ruffy worked hard during their time at SDF’s National Training Center to learn the skills necessary to prepare them for a lifetime career of service in disaster search. Each with their own, unique story, they transformed throughout their time in training into confident Search Dogs, ready to be partnered with their new handlers.
After an intensive two-week Handler Course, covering everything from basic handling skills to more advanced scent theory and search strategy, the handlers were ready to be handed the leash to their new canine partners. During a special Search Team Graduation Ceremony in front of family, friends and SDF staff, SDF’s trainers spoke of the teams’ growth through the two weeks of their course and the anticipation and excitement for what lies ahead for these teams.
We are grateful to California Task Force 1, Los Angeles Fire Department, Lincoln Fire-Rescue, and Nebraska Task Force 1 for their support of these teams as they entered the selection process, completed this initial training and as they continue on this journey together, as Search Teams, to Certification and eventual deployment to help others in the aftermath of disasters.
We would also like to thank:
- Haven Humane Society for recognizing Ruffy’s potential as a Search Dog.
- Kirsten Fulk for helping SDF recruit Search Dogs Flyer and Ruffy.
- Stephanie O’Brien for donating Search Dog Amber.
- The Joel and Dena Gambord Foundation for sponsoring Search Dog Flyer.
- Julie Croker for sponsoring Search Dog Amber.
- Patricia Snyder for sponsoring Search Dog Ruffy.
- The Skall family for giving us the privilege and honor of naming Search Dog Amber in memory of Amber Skall. (read their story here)
See more photos of the Handler Course and graduation below:
