09/11/2026
Today we remember the brave search and rescue dogs of 9/11. They worked tirelessly through unimaginable conditions, searching for those who needed to be found and bringing comfort to those who needed it. 25 years later, we honor their service. 🐾🌎🗽
Among the dogs whose stories became closely associated with 9/11 was Bretagne, a two-year-old golden retriever who arrived at Ground Zero about a week after the attacks. She was one of the few who could navigate the more challenging areas in the rubble without a leash. She worked for 12 hours a day for over 2 weeks to find survivors in the Pentagon rubble. 9/11 was her first mission, making her one of the youngest dogs to work the rescue mission. She continued to work after the mission, too, helping to locate survivors during many hurricanes and other natural disasters. She finally retired in 2011. During her career, she was one of the top 50 search and rescue dogs, one of the highest honors she could receive. She also worked as a cadaver dog in the Middle East, receiving several rewards for her service.
