The National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) deployed sixteen disaster recovery dog teams to areas affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. These highly trained teams of rescued dogs and their human partners are the latest mobilization of paw-powered units as they face the aftermath of severe and deadly weather on the East Coast.
These sixteen teams augment the noble efforts of twelve additional SDF-trained units currently engaged in ongoing rescue and recovery missions in North Carolina, a state still reeling from the effects of Hurricane Helene. The uplifting fact that most of these canine heroes were once shelter dogs – now transformed into essential resources in disaster response efforts – underscores the invaluable work of the SDF in harnessing the untapped potential of rescued dogs.
After intensive training lasting nine to twelve months, these dogs emerge ready to detect and navigate disaster scenes alongside their human counterparts. Deployed throughout the United States and Mexico, these duos embody a partnership built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to saving lives in emergencies such as those caused by hurricanes.
The deployment of these teams highlights a profound message of resilience and hope. SDF founder Wilma Melville, inspired by her own experiences as a FEMA-certified search dog handler after the Oklahoma City bombing, imagined a future in which the bond between dog and handler could be used to enhance the nation’s ability to respond to disasters. Thanks to her vision, hundreds of dogs have been rescued, trained and transformed into life-saving partners for firefighters and first responders.
National Disaster Search Dog Foundation teams are working on the East Coast in areas affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton (Courtesy)
As communities prepare for Hurricane Milton, the determination and readiness of the SDF and its fearless four-legged members serve as a beacon amid the approaching storm. Their commitment not only showcases the incredible achievements made possible by the human-canine bond, but also serves as a reminder of the undeniable spirit of compassion and resilience that has defined our nation’s response to disaster.
Those wishing to learn more about the extraordinary work of the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation or contribute to its mission can visit www.searchdogfoundation.org.
National Disaster Search Dog Foundation teams are working on the East Coast in areas affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton (Courtesy)
The following SDF-trained dog search teams joined their task force colleagues in response to Milton:
California Task Force 1
California Task Force 2
California Task Force 3
California Task Force 5
Nebraska Task Force 1
Oklahoma Task Force 1
Utah Task Force 1
Virginia Task Force 2