My first earthquake mission

A few months ago, it was my first time to be part of an international mission. I supported the search efforts after the earthquake in Türkiye. Luckily, my canine buddy Bo travelled with me. We were part of the Austrian Forces Disaster Relief Unit (AFDRU) of the Austrian Armed Forces.

On this important mission, even I knew how to keep my terrier temperament in check and didn't step out of line for a change. When we arrived in Hatay, my heart almost stopped in shock. There was hardly any building left standing, even whole apartment blocks had been razed to the ground. Bo jostled me: "Come on, we have to go! There's a lot for us super snoopers to do."

As soon as we started searching, there was absolute silence around us. You could have heard a pin drop – the hope was so great that we were pointing out survivors under the rubble through our barking. In the end, we were able to save the lives of nine people.

When we returned home after ten days, Bo and I made a detour to the dog salon. We had to clean all the dust off our fur and get spruced up for the mayor of Vienna. He invited us to the city hall and presented us with an "honorary treat".

We search and rescue dogs regularly save lives not only in international disasters, but also in emergencies in our home countries. Your donation makes this possible. Please continue to support us.

Your Arvi