SDF-trained team deploys to assist recovery efforts in aftermath of Texas flooding
In the wake of catastrophic flooding across parts of Central Texas, search efforts began in affected areas, where first responders worked to locate those who may be trapped or missing.
Among the many resources deployed to the region was SDF-trained search team Jon Munguia & Clifford of California Task Force 2 (CA-TF2) and Los Angeles County Fire, responding as part of the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). Jon and Clifford, along with teammates Celina Serrano & Prentiss, assisted with recovery efforts in some of the hardest-hit areas, where the rising Guadalupe River caused severe damage and left entire communities devastated. Jon, Clifford, Celina, and Prentiss provided support in an additional operational area near Kerrville, TX, extending their deployment up to a total of 18 days.
In addition, SDF handlers Brandon Andersen, Eric Darling, Julie Padelford, Andrew Pitcher, and Adam Schaaf all deployed in various capacities to assist with the search for those still missing. At least 30 canine search teams responded to the region, including federal, state, and locally deployed resources, bringing critical search capabilities from throughout the United States and Mexico in this time of need.
Our hearts go out to all who have been affected by this tragedy and we send our deepest thanks to all those who have worked tirelessly to bring closure to the loved ones of those lost.
National Disaster Search Dog Foundation
Donate now!www.SearchDogFoundation.org
(888) 4K9-HERO
(805) 646-1015
Executive Director: Rhett Mauck
Mission
Our mission is to strengthen disaster response in America by rescuing and recruiting dogs and partnering them with firefighters and other first responders to find people buried alive in the wreckage of disasters.
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We know you care about where your money goes and how it is used. Connect with this organization’s leadership in order to begin to build this important relationship. Your email will be sent directly to this organization’s Director of Development and/or Executive Director.
The Search Dog Foundation has consistently provided highly trained canine disaster search teams in support of the Bay Area and our operations with the San Francisco Fire Department and California Task Force 3. These canines serve as an indispensable resource in our urban search and rescue efforts. Whether deployed in response to earthquakes, hurricanes, mudslides, or missing persons incidents, their capabilities significantly enhance the effectiveness of our missions. We are sincerely grateful to the Search Dog Foundation for supplying these exceptional teams at no cost, thereby strengthening our readiness and ensuring we remain fully equipped to serve the community whenever the need arises.
Sponsor the Canine Heroes
The frequency and strength of recent disasters are stark reminders that they can strike at the heart of any community. In the search for victims, a search dog’s remarkable nose and hard-earned skills mean the difference between days versus minutes, lost versus found, uncertainty versus hope. The National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) works diligently to ensure canine search teams across America can deploy at a moment’s notice when needed, which includes preparing the next generation of canine heroes.
From the day they arrive on campus to the day they are paired with first responders, SDF spends approximately $75,000 to train a search dog over 10 to 12 months.
SDF is raising $975,000 to train the next search dog graduates. Donors at $20,000 and above can become sponsors of a search dog in training, receiving updates on their progress and milestones throughout their career. Sponsor one or even a pack of canine heroes to be Part of the Search!
Board of Directors
George Leis, Chair, Executive Vice President & Market President, CalPrivate Bank
Richard Butt, Vice-Chair, Retired EVP, Executive Creative Director, VMLY&R
Deborah Whiteley, Secretary, Communications Consultant
Christine DeVries, Treasurer, Retired Financial Services Executive
Elena Brokaw, The Barbara Barnard Smith Executive Director, Museum of Ventura County
Michael Cesare, Management Consultant, KPMG US LLP
Robert Harris, Deputy Fire Chief, Los Angeles County Fire Department
Sydne Levy, Attorney, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck
Andrew MacCalla, Co-Founder and CEO, Collective Energy
Rhett Mauck, CEO, National Disaster Search Dog Foundation
Crystal Wyatt, Leadership in Board Governance and Creative & Sustainable Philanthropy