Task Force: Oklahoma Task Force 1 (Oklahoma City)
Agency: Oklahoma City Fire
Level: Certified
Breed: Lab
Sex: Male
Born: May 20, 2021
Puppy Alder was generously donated to SDF by Kaiser K9, and trainers say this little guy was a blast to work with from day one. Although he’s physically on the smaller side, he has a BIG voice and loves to bark! He loves searching for his hidden person, and once he finds them, he employs his love of tugging like no other, channeling his inner crocodile as he thrashes and bounces in glee!
As he grew into adulthood and mastered all the skills he would need as a search dog, Alder revealed an exceptional talent for climbing ladders—he was a natural! And he never lost his enthusiasm for barking, which is now an impressive, robust alert! Trainers always had a ton of fun working with this spicy little guy, who, despite his high-energy personality when in “work mode,” also has a sensitive side. His favorite way to end all his training sessions is with belly rubs, and with that adorable face, trainers were always happy to oblige. We are confident that Alder and his handler have plenty of time planned together, both with search training and belly rubs.
On June 3, 2023, Alder was partnered with Jessica White of Oklahoma City Fire Department and Oklahoma Task Force 1 (OK-TF1). In November 2023, Jessica and Alder achieved certification with the State Urban Search and Rescue Alliance, which allows them to deploy with their task force.
On October 8, 2024, Alder and Jessica deployed with their OK-TF1 teammates to assist Floridian communities in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. We wish them all a safe and successful mission!