Gator was one of a select few canines accepted to the Search Dog Foundation program as a puppy in the early 2000’s. He was donated by Mary Jane Hunt, a breeder from Florida—hence his name—and an acquaintance of SDF’s lead trainer at the time, Pluis Davern. As a breeder, Mary …
Girl was a German Wirehair Pointer, born on May 22, 2001 and donated to the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) by Rhonda Ridgley of Daisy Dog Rescue in San Jose, California. She was a very stubborn and determined dog, and her intense toy-drive was an immediate draw for SDF …
Sandi, a male Border Collie born on December 5, 1998, was blessed with a great opportunity as a young dog: to train for the job of his dreams. He was first adopted as a pet from the Orange County Rescue Center by someone from Anaheim, California. It soon became clear …
Sometimes the path from shelter to Search Dog is an arduous one, with many dedicated people helping along the way. When a rescued dog concludes the first 30 days of training at Sundowners Kennels, it is cause for celebration! This is Rowdy’s story: from neglected stray to Search Dog in …
“The Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog with strong guardian instincts. Australian Shepherds are delightful and loyal companions. They love to be part of the daily hustle and bustle. They diligently carry out their responsibilities. They are easy to train, and eager to please.” We don’t know a lot about …
Apr. 2000—Jan. 2013 The story of “Mace” began tragically. This Yellow Lab began his life in Fremont, CA, with an owner who abandoned him and, unbelievably, tied him to a railroad track. He was then sprayed with mace and left to die. He was found and taken to an animal …
Cody wasn’t destined to be a laid-back couch dog. Sure, he was everything a family dog should be: friendly, loyal, handsome and smart. But while he loved his family, he seemed to want more out of life. He honed his skill as an escape artist, sometimes using paws, nose and …
Born May 28, 1998, Jessie’s story began with SDF handler, Jeff Place, who raised him from a pup before bringing him to Wilma, SDF’s founder. Wilma and SDF soon found him a Prep Home with Donna Stevens and her family. It was with the Stevens family that Jessie started to …
Ranger, a male Border Collie, was born on October 15, 2000 with all the characteristics of a Disaster Search Dog. Recognizing this, his owner, Deresa Teller, decided to donate him to the Search Dog Foundation (SDF) to receive professional training. Ranger was placed with volunteer Rosemary Schumacher for his Canine …
