Three SDF canine disaster search teams are currently deployed to assist in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew:
- Eric Darling & Ben (Pennsylvania Task Force 1 – PA-TF1)
- Marshia Hall & Lilah (Florida Task Force 1 – FL-TF1)
- Julie Padelford-Jansen & Ricochet (Florida Task Force 2 – FL-TF2)
Eric & Ben are heading toward Florida via bus and Julie and Marshia are following the storm northbound until it is determined where there is the greatest need for rescue assistance.
This 6abc.com news video from Philadelphia shows PA-TF1 preparing for deployment.
We will update our social media and supporters with any news from the field as the teams arrive at their destinations and assess the needs of the region. Our teams do their best to update us during a deployment but due to safety concerns and/or logistical issues, they cannot always share information right away.
In addition, there are multiple FEMA task forces deploying from throughout the East Coast including Indiana Task Force 1, Maryland Task Force 1, Missouri Task Force 1, New Jersey Task Force 1, New York Task Force 1, Ohio Task Force 1, Tennessee Task Force 1, Virginia Task Force 1, and Virginia Task Force 2.
At the exact same time as these three veteran SDF teams are deployed across the country, SDF continues to train the next generation of Search Dogs right here in Santa Paula, CA at our National Training Center.
