Dog Famous for World Trade Center Heroism Dies at Twelve

On September 11, 2001, Jake, a black Labrador retriever, aided in the attempted rescue after the World Trade Center attacks in New York City, searching desperately through the smoking rubble for survivors. Like many other search and rescue dogs, he also aided in another very important mission, searching for survivors of Hurricane Katrina. Re living the bold attempts of a wonderful dog brings me to share with you the unfortunate news of Jakes passing.

Jake was battling cancer, at the ripe age of twelve. After visiting a few of his favorite places, he was put to sleep, allowing his pain to end. Although cancer is very common in older dogs, it is uncertain whether or not the conditions of the World Trade Center played a part in his failing health. The brave Labrador retrievers autopsy results will be part of a study focused on dogs that searched the remains of the World Trade Center.

After being abandoned on the streets at 10 months old with a broken leg and dislocated hip, Jake was adopted by Mary flood. This unwanted dog soon turned into a hero, eventually training other dogs the rails of rescuing. Jake also brought smiles to the faces of children at a Utah camp for burn victims, as well as senior homes and hospitals. While mourning the loss of such an important member of the search and rescue community, it's important to cherish the memories of such a wonderful dog, and bring light to the loyalty and dedication this dog had.

There are many dogs out there that did the same as Jake. Searching through debris, desperately trying to find life in the hardest of places. It's important to remember that Jake was not the only k9 hero on that Tuesday morning of September 11, 2001. There were many others that were dedicated in their attempts to find life. As said previously, it is uncertain whether or not the conditions of ground zero had anything to do with Jakes cancer. We all can hope that the autopsy results will answer this question, and eventually lead to a system of prevention. Search and rescue dogs are just as important, and need adequate protection as we humans do.

Thank you, Jake.