On September 11th, 2001, a group of Al Qaeda terrorists hijack four passenger airplanes and carry out suicide attacks against major U. S. targets, including the World Trade Center in New York City. What followed was one of the largest search-and-rescue missions in history, as FEMA teams and first-responders descended on ground zero in search of survivors.

Many heroes would arrive on scene to help, with one unique group arriving on four legs instead of two - The FEMA Canine Search-and-Rescue dogs.

On today's episode, we'll speak with canine handlers Bob Deeds, Sarah Atlas, and Cindy Ehlers, as well as veterinarian Dr. Cindy Otto. We'll discuss what it was like that day at ground zero, the challenges these dogs faced on the ground, the long-term health effects of the rescue operation, and the emotional impact of the event.

I hope you enjoy today's episode.

If you'd like to get involved with canine search-and-rescue, there are many ways to do so. You can reach out to the following organizations for more information:

• Penn Vet Working Dog Center - https://bit.ly/4aHS8eY
• Hope Animal-Assisted Crisis Response - https://www.hopeaacr.org/
• Deeds Canine Connection - https://www.deedscanineconnection.com/
• Search and Rescue Dog Foundation - https://bit.ly/3RKDVW2

To learn more about the show, view transcripts, and more visit:
https://www.actsofimpact.com

Special thanks to our guests for their time and insight.
Music by Alex Grohls.