The "traditional" image of a police dog is one used to enforce public order by chasing and holding suspects, but they also are used to locate suspects or finding missing persons or objects. Some dogs are used to detect illicit substances such as drugs or explosives. Canine officers are well-trained, they have police badges and are considered police officers under the law in many states.
In the wake of disaster, people aren't the only ones that put themselves in harm's way to help others. Search and rescue dogs have become an important component of rescue operations, often locating survivors and reaching them when humans cannot. Most of these heros are volunteers. We've provided links to their organizations and all donations are important and very much appreciated.
A service dog can do many tasks, depending on the person's disability. A dog guide is the eyes for its blind handler. A hearing dog alerts the handler to sounds, a Seizure Alert/Response dog responds when the handler has a seizure, and a Mobility Assist Dog (also called a Service Dog), is the arms and legs for a disabled person. Psychiatric Service Dogs can alert to anxiety and panic attacks as well as remind handlers to take medication.
SFC Boe is a therapy dog that tends to soldiers in Iraq suffering from combat stress and injuries.
Zak and Fritz have been the first two K9's 'Range Qualified' this year.
The training went well and Loki (my dog) adjusted to the Mutt Muffs quite well, I had tried it on him earlier and he didn't want anything to do with the Mutt Muffs, but once the engine cranked up he never tried to take them off after. I did feel a bit sorry for him though since he had to wear Mutt Muffs, Doggles and a muzzle ;) (The doggles and muzzle are required for helicopter deployments). I attached a few pictures that I thought you would enjoy
Rhode Island Urban Search & Rescue Max is all prepared for today’s helicopter training. He has his Mutt Muffs to protect his hearing and they also keep flying particles from getting into his ears as well. Doggles to protect his eyes and his harness to allow me have better control in case of an emergency
Eva on Angel Flight missions