Search and rescue dog Wilson dies after accident during training

Taipei, July 9 (CNA) A search and rescue dog named Wilson, from the Hualien County Fire Department, died in an accident during a training session in early June, the department told local media Wednesday.

The three-year-old Jack Russell Terrier ran toward rescue personnel during a search and rescue training exercise but fell from a three-story building due to an improperly secured fence. He later died from his injuries, said Wu Zhao-yuan (吳兆遠), director-general of the department.

Wilson's handler, who had been with him for three years, was very sad and blamed himself for failing to carry out adequate checks and ensure the safety of the training ground, Wu said.

Worried that the handler might be emotionally affected by reminders of the accident at his original post, the department transferred him from the unit and assigned a counselor to support his emotional recovery, Wu said.

He added that it is hoped group life will help ease the handler's grief.

Wu further said, however, since training a search and rescue dog requires significant manpower, time and resources, handlers should be mindful of on-site conditions and conduct thorough safety checks before training.

In this case, the handler was indeed negligent and has been issued a formal reprimand, Wu noted.

During search and rescue missions after a major earthquake in April 2024, Wilson helped locate the remains of several victims on Shakadang Trail in Taroko National Park, Hualien.

Wilson's remains will be made into a memorial to commemorate his contribution to their work, the department said.