The Wilderness Search and Rescue team bid farewell and honour the life of K9 Rescuer Brooke, who gave 12 incredible years of service to the cause.
South Africa (06 February 2024) – K9 rescuer Brooke has been honoured by the K9 Search and Rescue Association of South Africa (K9 SARA) as well as the Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) team, where she often aided rescue missions. The WSAR team honoured her 12 years of service and delighted in her legacy living on in her daughter Sage.
Each year, hundreds of rescues take place in the Western Cape. WSAR classify the wilderness environment as mountains, shorelines, rivers, kloofs, non-mountainous wilderness areas, caves, deserts and forests.
K9s are not always deployed on rescue missions. Often the heroes will be brought in when their keen sense of smell is specifically needed.
The K9 Search and Rescue Association of South Africa is also a volunteer service where handlers and their dogs are specifically trained to deal with rescue operations. For a dog to become a K9, they undergo a series of tests before being certified. It takes a great commitment from both the handler and the dog.
Brooke and her handler volunteered as rescuers for 12 years. Brooke used her keen senses to track down people in need of medical assistance while out in the wilderness of the Western Cape. Brooke’s efforts saved lives for over a decade and that makes her a hero in our eyes.
We love that both rescue organisations honoured her life’s work, making sure her efforts are seen, even though she has already crossed the rainbow bridge.
Did you know: There is no charge for rescue services in South Africa. So if you find yourself in danger in the Wilderness, you won’t be charged to be rescued. You just have to call 021 937 0300 (save that number to your phone), and help will be sent. The number will take you directly to the Metro Control Centre, which will then coordinate a rescue or assistance depending on what is needed.
Brooke was a valuable member of the rescue industry and she will be missed! Her daughters Sage and Cassia, 11-year-old German Shorthaired Pointers, carry the baton on.
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