The Power of Dogs in Saving Lives

On the 6^th of May 2024, tragedy struck in George when a five-story building, still under construction, collapsed—burying 62 workers beneath concrete slabs and other building debris.

Our K9 search and rescue teams, Echo and Chaos, along with their handlers Mariann Wilson and James Smart deployed immediately to the scene, arriving within hours of the incident. Dogs and humans worked tirelessly under dangerous and challenging conditions.

This year, on the 6^th of May, exactly a year later, Echo, Chaos, Mariann, and James were invited to a memorial service held in honour of those who lost their lives, those who survived and those who responded with bravery and compassion.

K9 Search & Rescue attending the George memorial

At K9 Search and Rescue South Africa, we are committed to maintaining this life-saving capability. Our dogs are trained to international standards, ready to respond in times of disaster both locally and abroad.

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“When every second counts, a dog’s nose can find what eyes and machines cannot.”

Meet our newly qualified members

Handler Vicki and K9 Cobalt. Cobalt is wilderness life find K9 for K9SARA.

Handler Ilanka Coetzee and her K9 Isha . Isha is now a qualified HR wilderness K9 for K9SARA.

Handler Kerrin and K9 Ranger. Ranger is wilderness life find K9 for K9SARA.

Goodbye

RIP Luke Skywalker. Retired wilderness search dog has gained his wings at the age if 16. He was a huge legend in our unit!