Harper is a remarkable example of what love, kindness and a lot of love can do for an animal. Once a timid pup rescued from a hoarding situation, she has now blossomed into a dedicated disaster search dog, using her skills to help people in their most desperate times of need.
Harper, a black Lab mix, was among 22 dogs saved from a severe hoarding and neglect case. After the rescue, she found refuge at the Humane Society of the Black Hills in South Dakota. The shelter quickly recognized Harper’s potential and reached out to the Search Dog Foundation (SDF), an organization focused on enhancing disaster response through trained canine partners.
“Saving one dog will not change the world, but surely for that one dog, the world will change forever,” Karen Davison said.
Following a thorough four-day evaluation of all the rescued dogs, SDF identified Harper as the most promising candidate for training as a disaster search dog. Eventually, she joined SDF’s program, setting the stage for her incredible journey ahead.
Harper was enrolled in a pilot program to become a Human Remains Detection (HRD) canine for California Task Force 2 (CA-TF2), a specialized unit composed of medical professionals, rescue experts, and canine search specialists. Her adaptability and enthusiasm shone through, and eventually she graduated from the program. SDF decided that Harper showed great potential for becoming a disaster search dog.
After graduation, Harper met her partner, firefighter Ed Ruiz from the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Together, they trained rigorously with their CA-TF2 team and achieved FEMA certification. This accomplishment made it possible for Harper and Ruiz to deploy nationwide, providing necessary assistance during natural disasters.
Harper with her partner, Ed Ruiz of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Photo courtesy of the ASPCA
Since 2022, the dynamic duo has responded to several disaster zones, including Florida after Hurricane Ian and Lahaina, Hawaii, following devastating wildfires. At these sites, Harper uses her expert training and remarkable sense of smell to locate individuals trapped in the rubble.
Harper’s unwavering dedication and extraordinary abilities have not gone unnoticed. This year, she was honored with the title of Dog of the Year at the 2024 ASPCA Humane Awards. This annual event celebrates the remarkable contributions of both animals and humans in promoting animal welfare and improving lives across communities.
Ed and Harper have now deployed multiple times, including to Hurricane Ian in Florida and more recently to the deadly wildfire in Lahaina, Hawaii. Alongside nearly 40 other teams, they searched through ash and debris for those lost in the devastating wildfire that swept through the Lahaina community on Aug. 8, 2023. They are also one of two U.S. task forces that can deploy globally with the United States Agency for International Development’s Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance.
