Search and Rescue

Some 13 handlers and their dogs were out on a rainy morning at Atlanta Elementary School campus last Saturday. They were members of the Bowie County Sheriff ’s Office Search and Rescue Teams.

They, and their dogs, were undergoing training. It’s something they try to accomplish every week of the year. The activity is a mixture of fun and serious dedication. The dogs and their handlers are called upon by law enforcement to help find people or items.

The Search and Rescue (SAR) teams are part of a magnificent organization. Search and rescue teams respond 24/365 when called. For example, in the nation’s “9/11” emergency, some 300 search and rescue teams were called out, the largest deployment in the organization’s history.

Their training takes place in a variety of places so that the dog can work in different environments. Saturday’s training was on school grounds. The dogs and their handlers worked for two hours. The dogs’ capabilities are air-scenting to find a person or object; tracking to find a particular person; and human remains detection. Some dogs are good at all three. Some better for one.

The local search and rescue organization works quietly, almost behind the scene with modest attention. For this reason, search and rescue teams seek new members, supporters, new dogs and trainers. Even youth can be involved, especially to assist with training.

The local Bowie County Sheriff ’s Office and Rescue teams want the public to know of their work. As for membership on a team, dogs can be of almost of any type, as long as it is a confident and friendly animal, unafraid and not susceptible to loud noises.

Handlers will provide for their own expense. Here’s an equipment listing.

— Collar, leash and dog crate — Snake boots, briar chaps, backpack, hydration system, compass, leather gloves, GPS device, hand radio.

Nothing is provided except friendship and collaboration. Search and rescue is a skill. The dogs, too, take it seriously.

Finally, a word about that “9/11” deployment of 300 SAR teams mentioned above. The dog “Apollo” and his handler were the first SAR team on the scene about 15 minutes after the explosions.

“Apollo” became a hero. He spent 18 hours there, and once became so soaked with water and chemicals that when falling debris and flames fell on him, the water’s soak and thick hair saved him.

Later that day, with extreme exhaustion, “Apollo” required treatment. He came back to serve days later and for years afterward as well.

Bowie County Sheriff ’s Office Search and Rescue Teams in their training are joined with traditions such as made by SAR teams around the world.