Redemption Road K9

02/19/2025

"Dear Colleagues and Community Members,

In light of recent discussions surrounding our Search and Rescue (SAR) initiatives, I extend an open invitation to those who believe they can demonstrate improved methodologies. We are eager to collaborate and learn from diverse perspectives. If you possess innovative approaches or insights into SAR operations, we would be delighted to host you for a lecture or workshop at our University, engaging both our academic community and the broader public we serve.

For those who prefer to critique from the sidelines, remember: the view is always clearer from the field. We welcome your active participation to effect meaningful change.

Please reach out directly to coordinate your involvement. Together, we can enhance our practices and better serve those in need.

Emergency Preparedness for Whom? How Atlanta’s Disaster Response System Fails Its Most Vulnerable Populations (): https://bit.ly/3EIsf3p.

Help us spread the word—tag and share!

Best regards,
John Anthony S."

02/13/2025

🦺🐕 Honoring Magnus Tiberius: A Legacy of Service and Devotion 🦺🐕

Today, we honor the incredible life and journey of Magnus Tiberius, a Cane Corso whose dedication and heart left a lasting impact on all who knew him. As a proud member of Redemption Road K9’s Medical Service Dog Program for Veterans, Magnus embodied the very essence of loyalty, intelligence, and unwavering service.

From the beginning, Magnus showed a level of composure and drive that trainers dream of. He earned his AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy distinction early in his journey, marking the foundation of what would become a truly remarkable path in service work. His adventures took him to places few dogs ever experience—including witnessing a true-to-life rocket launch 🚀—a testament to the incredible bond he shared with his owner and the extraordinary life they lived together.

Though his time with us was too short, Magnus' impact will never fade. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service, reminding us why we do what we do. His story continues to inspire, and his spirit will always be a part of the Redemption Road K9 family.

Rest easy, Magnus. You were CHOSEN, and you will never be forgotten. 💙🐾

02/11/2025

Honored to Serve, Proud to Partner
"Yesterday morning, my heart was shattered into a thousand pieces. With tears in my eyes, I sought guidance from above. I called my wife, trying to muster the confidence to face the storm we were enduring. When she asked me about our next steps, I almost lost it. I took a deep breath and admitted I wasn’t sure. But from the depths of my soul, I told her to have faith—that He would fight for us. We needed only to be still and steadfast. That was at 7:41 AM.

Then, at 7:45 AM, my phone rang.

Redemption Road K9 and the Georgia Community Emergency Response Team are deeply honored to be trusted partners in our community, working alongside the exceptional professionals of the Lawrenceville Police Department. Their unwavering commitment to public safety, innovation, and collaboration sets the standard for excellence in law enforcement.

All day yesterday, our teams had the honor of assisting in a critical investigation, deploying our specialized K9s to aid in the search efforts. What began as a local mission quickly evolved into a nationwide collaboration—bringing together exceptional handlers, dedicated working dogs, and experts from diverse fields, all united in the pursuit of public safety. It was a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through teamwork, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

We are grateful for the trust placed in us and remain committed to serving our community with the highest level of professionalism and discretion.

A special acknowledgment to Detective Brandon Austin DeCosse and K9 Wick, whose dedication and expertise continue to make a lasting impact—not just in the field but also as guest lecturers at the La Sierra University: Criminal Justice. Their work exemplifies the very best of the City of Lawrenceville and its law enforcement community.

For those of you doubting the full potential of the world we live in: Yesterday, a white detective from the South reached out to a Persian Orthodox Jew from Seattle and a white woman from Atlanta, who then connected with a Peruvian from Los Angeles, who called a Dominican from Seattle, who called another white woman from Pennsylvania for additional support. And this happened all while I was lecturing some of the best and brightest minds in the world 3,000 miles away. I’m certain some kind of history was made in that moment. United, we stand ready to serve. 🐾💙

Isaiah 6:8

- John Anthony S"

Read more about yesterday, HERE: https://bit.ly/4hSfVvx

Lawrenceville police are investigating after they say a construction crew found a “skeletonized skull" on Monday.

02/09/2025

🦺🐕Honoring K9 Max Ramirez: A Legacy of Service and Heart 🦺🐕

This week will be honoring our K9 partners and recognizing the for the work they do in the community. Today, we remember and celebrate the incredible life and service of RRK9 Max Ramirez, the first graduate of the Law Enforcement Dogs for the 21st Century () Program at and distinguished member of the Georgia Community Emergency Response Team (). As the first official "LED-21® K9 Guardian of Justice", Max set the standard for what it means to serve with dedication, intelligence, and heart.

Max’s impact was felt far and wide. As a K9 Courtroom Advocate, he stood beside the most vulnerable, offering silent strength and comfort to those navigating the legal system. His presence was more than just reassuring—it was transformative.

Through the Brittany’s Buddy K9 Literacy Program, Max helped young readers find confidence in their voices. Sitting patiently beside children as they read aloud, he reminded them that learning is a journey best taken with a loyal friend by your side.

On campus, Max was a beloved presence among students and staff, embodying the spirit of service that defines La Sierra University. Whether offering support during stressful times or simply bringing joy to those around him, Max was more than a working dog—he was family.

Max earned his honor and distinction, and today, we recognize him posthumously for his unwavering dedication to justice, education, and community. His legacy lives on in the work we continue, in the lives he touched, and in the lessons he taught us about loyalty, compassion, and courage.

Rest easy, Max. You will never be forgotten. 💙🐾

Congratulations .

You can always follow in someone’s footsteps, but there will only ever be ONE who made the path. K9 Max Ramirez, the first graduate of LED-21®, blazed the trail and set the standard for all who follow.

02/09/2025

🦺🐕Honoring K9 Max Ramirez: A Legacy of Service and Heart 🦺🐕

This week will be honoring our K9 partners and recognizing the for the work they do in the community. Today, we remember and celebrate the incredible life and service of RRK9 Max Ramirez, the first graduate of the Law Enforcement Dogs for the 21st Century (LED-21®) Program at La Sierra University’s Criminal Justice Department and distinguished member of the Georgia Community Emergency Response Team. As the first official "LED-21® K9 Guardian of Justice", Max set the standard for what it means to serve with dedication, intelligence, and heart.

Max’s impact was felt far and wide. As a K9 Courtroom Advocate, he stood beside the most vulnerable, offering silent strength and comfort to those navigating the legal system. His presence was more than just reassuring—it was transformative.

Through the Brittany’s Buddy K9 Literacy Program, Max helped young readers find confidence in their voices. Sitting patiently beside children as they read aloud, he reminded them that learning is a journey best taken with a loyal friend by your side.

On campus, Max was a beloved presence among students and staff, embodying the spirit of service that defines La Sierra University. Whether offering support during stressful times or simply bringing joy to those around him, Max was more than a working dog—he was family.

Max earned his honor and distinction, and today, we recognize him posthumously for his unwavering dedication to justice, education, and community. His legacy lives on in the work we continue, in the lives he touched, and in the lessons he taught us about loyalty, compassion, and courage.

Rest easy, Max. You will never be forgotten. 💙🐾

02/06/2025

🚨 The Unsung Heroes Behind Every K9 Team 🚨

THIS FRIDAY! Meet , LMT, BCTMB, ESMT, CCMT—a trailblazer in Myofascial Release therapy for working dogs! 🐕💪

Alex LaPierre is a Board-Certified Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT, BCTMB) and a leading expert in Myofascial Release (MFR) therapy, specializing in the health, recovery, and performance of working dogs. Her expertise is essential to the well-being and longevity of all working canines, but especially those in Law Enforcement and Search & Rescue (SAR), where peak physical condition can mean the difference between success and failure in critical operations.

As a guest speaker at for the , Alex brings invaluable insight into the biomechanics, injury prevention, and rehabilitative care necessary to maintain elite-level performance in K9 teams. Law enforcement and SAR dogs endure intense physical demands, from explosive detection and suspect apprehension to disaster response and wilderness tracking. Without proper care, these high-performance athletes face musculoskeletal strain, decreased mobility, and premature career-ending injuries.

Through advanced manual therapy techniques, Alex helps optimize movement, reduce pain, and accelerate recovery in working dogs, ensuring longer, healthier, and more effective careers. Her training includes John F. Barnes Myofascial Release, along with specialized education from leading experts in fascial research, biomechanics, and chronic pain management. She has studied under John Sharkey, MSc, at the prestigious Trecchi Human Academy in Cremona, Italy, participating in one of the world’s few hands-on fascial dissection programs—an experience that deepened her understanding of the structural and functional integrity required for elite canine athletes.

Beyond her work with police, military, and SAR K9s, Alex is a dedicated educator, advocating for a paradigm shift in how working dogs are maintained and rehabilitated. By integrating science-backed bodywork techniques with performance training and veterinary care, she is helping shape the future of canine operational wellness and injury prevention.

02/05/2025

🚨 The Unsung Heroes Behind Every K9 Team 🚨

THIS FRIDAY! Meet Alex LaPierre, LMT, BCTMB, ESMT, CCMT—a trailblazer in Myofascial Release therapy for working dogs! 🐕💪

Alex LaPierre is a Board-Certified Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT, BCTMB) and a leading expert in Myofascial Release (MFR) therapy, specializing in the health, recovery, and performance of working dogs. Her expertise is essential to the well-being and longevity of all working canines, but especially those in Law Enforcement and Search & Rescue (SAR), where peak physical condition can mean the difference between success and failure in critical operations.

As a guest speaker at La Sierra University’s Criminal Justice Department for the LED-21® Program, Alex brings invaluable insight into the biomechanics, injury prevention, and rehabilitative care necessary to maintain elite-level performance in K9 teams. Law enforcement and SAR dogs endure intense physical demands, from explosive detection and suspect apprehension to disaster response and wilderness tracking. Without proper care, these high-performance athletes face musculoskeletal strain, decreased mobility, and premature career-ending injuries.

Through advanced manual therapy techniques, Alex helps optimize movement, reduce pain, and accelerate recovery in working dogs, ensuring longer, healthier, and more effective careers. Her training includes John F. Barnes Myofascial Release, along with specialized education from leading experts in fascial research, biomechanics, and chronic pain management. She has studied under John Sharkey, MSc, at the prestigious Trecchi Human Academy in Cremona, Italy, participating in one of the world’s few hands-on fascial dissection programs—an experience that deepened her understanding of the structural and functional integrity required for elite canine athletes.

Beyond her work with police, military, and SAR K9s, Alex is a dedicated educator, advocating for a paradigm shift in how working dogs are maintained and rehabilitated. By integrating science-backed bodywork techniques with performance training and veterinary care, she is helping shape the future of canine operational wellness and injury prevention.

When she’s not working with clients, Alex enjoys training her own horse, Bacardi, hiking with her dogs, Aoife and Zac, and exploring the latest advancements in integrative bodywork therapies.

Her expertise isn’t just about performance—it’s about honoring the sacrifice these dogs make by giving them the best care possible.

Learn more about Alex La Pierre HERE: https://northgamfr.com/our-therapists/

🏆🐾

01/27/2025

🐾 Exciting News from RRK9! 🐾

We're proud to highlight Alex Collier, a nationally certified K9 Search and Rescue (SAR) Handler, distinguished Law Enforcement Dogs for the 21st Century (LED-21®) Instructor, and Chief Compliance Officer at Genesis Capital, a global Mergers and Acquisitions firm.

Alex's journey in SAR is driven by her deep passion for helping communities in times of crisis. Her exceptional commitment to excellence and attention to detail have made her an invaluable asset in deploying K9 teams to locate missing persons and support law enforcement across both land and water.

As an LED-21® Instructor, Alex plays a key role in shaping the next generation of K9 handlers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle complex search operations. She is a passionate advocate for SAR education, frequently speaking at industry conferences to emphasize the importance of volunteer engagement, preparedness, and continuous learning in SAR missions.

This week, Alex is leading a specialized Intro to Tactical K9 First Aid & Safety course, where students will receive hands-on training in emergency medical interventions for working dogs. Her instruction ensures that handlers are prepared to provide life-saving care in high-stress environments. This course in to help prepare our LED-21 students for the incredible K9 MEDIC course with Jo-Anne Brenner later this school year!

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alex is dedicated to mentoring and inspiring future SAR professionals through programs like the K9 Youth Handlers Program, empowering young individuals to take an active role in search and rescue efforts and community safety initiatives.

With her unwavering commitment to community enhancemet, innovation, and excellence, Alex Collier continues to make a lasting impact in the field of K9 search and rescue—bridging the gap between community involvement and operational effectiveness to build safer, more resilient communities.

Watch Alex Collier talk about K9 SAR and diversity at SARCON 2024 HERE: https://bit.ly/42pmIZj

Learn more about and donate to GA-CERT K9 HERE: https://www.gacertk9.org/

Welcome to the RRK9 Community Empowerment Lecture Series video on Alex Collier's impactful presentation at SARCON 2024!Alex Collier () a nation...

01/07/2025

🌟 New Semester, New Horizons! 🌟

We’re ecstatic to launch another transformative semester at La Sierra University with the LED-21® Program! This innovative initiative is revolutionizing K9 education, and we’re honored to be at the forefront of this exciting journey. 🐾🎓

💡 Why LED-21® Matters:
The LED-21® Program combines cutting-edge research, hands-on training, and a mission-driven approach to redefine K9 roles in search and rescue, law enforcement, and animal-assisted therapy. It’s about empowering future leaders to create impactful changes in their communities and beyond.

📚 This Semester’s Highlights:
We’ve curated an extraordinary lineup of guest lecturers, featuring:
✨ World-renowned K9 trainers & handlers
✨ Visionary experts in animal welfare
✨ Pioneers in animal-assisted interventions

Students will gain unparalleled insights and skills to excel in their K9-focused careers.

🐾 Stay tuned for incredible updates and inspiring success stories as we dive into this semester. Let’s unlock the future of K9-human collaboration together!

🐕‍🦺 Together, we’re shaping the future—one paw at a time.

Photography: Yrene Ramirez

01/05/2025

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Karen Pryor, whose groundbreaking work in animal behavior and training profoundly impacted us at Redemption Road K9. Her book, Don't Shoot the Dog, transformed the way we approach leadership and communication, not only with dogs but also within our team. We are forever grateful for her encouragement in our early RRK9 days, especially at ClickerExpo. In the spirit of "Tikkun Olam" — repairing the world — Karen helped us build a better, more compassionate community. You will be missed, Karen. 💔

Read more about Karen HERE: https://bit.ly/3BS0mot

About Karen Pryor Karen Pryor, publicity photo for Oceanic Institute, about 1968. Karen Pryor had many interests. She was an observer of the smallest detail (as a child she studied butterfly anatomy) but what made her life’s work exceptional was that she also saw the big picture. It would have bee...

01/03/2025

As we reflect on 2024, we're incredibly grateful for the support that has helped us grow and serve communities across Georgia and beyond. Highlights include the graduation of 26 students from our LED21® Pilot Program, the launch of our OFFICIAL AKC Therapy Dog Program, and exciting new partnerships and research initiatives! Thank you for being part of this journey.

At RRK9 Inc. and Georgia Community Emergency Response Team, we are united in our mission to strengthen communities through enhanced emergency response, resilience-building, and life-saving teamwork. Together, our efforts empower individuals and teams to rise to the challenges of a crisis. We are deeply grateful for your continued partnership, which allows us to expand our impact and ensure a safer, more prepared future for all. Thank you for standing with us in this important work!

This year, as needs have grown more urgent, your generosity has been the cornerstone of our ability to rise to the challenge. Your contributions have helped fortify families, provide crucial training, and instill hope in the face of uncertainty.

We now invite you to join us in ensuring we are equipped to meet the challenges ahead.

Donate Here:

PayPal: [email protected]
Venmo:
CashApp: $gacertk9
Zelle: [email protected]
Amazon Wish List: https://amzn.to/3HfkUWB

Mail Checks: GA-CERT K9
P.O. Box 566005
Atlanta, GA 31156

All donations are tax-deductible and will receive an official letter from GA-CERT K9.

We thank you for your partnership, which is vital to our success and helps us make a meaningful impact in communities. Together, we look forward to a brighter and safer future for all.

Looking ahead, we're ready to face new challenges with your continued support. Want to schedule a visit from our GA-CERT K9 Therapy Dogs? Contact us today!

11/09/2024

🌟 What an unforgettable night! 🌟

We’re deeply honored that our very own Crixus of Gaul was celebrated as a K9 Hometown Hero by Modern Woodmen of America. As Proverbs 12:10 reminds us, "The righteous care for the needs of their animals," and tonight we truly felt the community’s heart and support for that mission. Seeing Crixus, our K9 Ambassador, savor a porterhouse steak in the company of some of Rockdale County's leaders was a moment we’ll never forget—a symbol of the shared journey and hard work that has brought us all together.

Our heartfelt thanks to Modern Woodmen of America for their incredible recognition and generosity, and to Outback Steakhouse in Conyers, GA, for treating us like family. The warmth, honor, and camaraderie made for a night of pure gratitude. Here’s to celebrating these amazing working dogs and the path they’re forging for a safer, brighter tomorrow! 🐾💙

11/05/2024

🌟 Meet RRK9's very own hero, Crixus of Gaul, our Chief of BARKeting, Courtroom Advocate, and GA-CERT K9 Ambassador! 🌟

Crixus is no ordinary dog—he’s a nationally certified multi-purpose K9 with real world finds and impressive skills in narcotics detection, tracking, trailing, and human remains detection both on land and in water. But his work goes beyond just search and detection. As a K9 Courtroom Advocate, Crixus is specially trained to provide comfort and support to anxious or traumatized individuals who are testifying in court, making a real difference in their lives when they need it most.

We are excited to share that Crixus is being honored by Modern Woodmen of America, a fraternal financial services organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its members and their communities through financial guidance and social initiatives. Alongside prominent political and business figures from Rockdale County, GA, Crixus is recognized as a K9 Hometown Hero. This recognition underscores the values of bravery, loyalty, and dedication that Crixus exemplifies in his service to the community.

That’s not all! , based in Rockdale County and Sandy Springs, GA, will also be in attendance. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet their amazing K9s and learn about their vital roles in ensuring community safety and responding to emergencies.

🗓 Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 7th, 2024, at 6:30PM at Outback Steakhouse, 1188 Dogwood Dr SE, Conyers, GA 30012.

Bring your family, friends, and fellow dog lovers to meet these heroic dogs and learn how they make a difference in our community every day. We can't wait to see you there!

🐕💙

11/05/2024

🌟 Meet RRK9's very own hero, Crixus of Gaul, our Chief of BARKeting, Courtroom Advocate, and GA-CERT K9 Ambassador! 🌟

Crixus is no ordinary dog—he’s a nationally certified multi-purpose K9 with real world finds and impressive skills in narcotics detection, tracking, trailing, and human remains detection both on land and in water. But his work goes beyond just search and detection. As a K9 Courtroom Advocate, Crixus is specially trained to provide comfort and support to anxious or traumatized individuals who are testifying in court, making a real difference in their lives when they need it most.

We are excited to share that Crixus is being honored by Modern Woodmen of America, a fraternal financial services organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for its members and their communities through financial guidance and social initiatives. Alongside prominent political and business figures from Rockdale County, GA, Crixus is recognized as a K9 Hometown Hero. This recognition underscores the values of bravery, loyalty, and dedication that Crixus exemplifies in his service to the community.

That’s not all! The Georgia Community Emergency Response Team (GA-CERT K9), based in Rockdale County and Sandy Springs, GA, will also be in attendance. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet their amazing K9s and learn about their vital roles in ensuring community safety and responding to emergencies. Learn more about GA-CERT K9 HERE: https://www.gacertk9.org/

🗓 Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 7th, 2024, at 6:30PM at Outback Steakhouse, 1188 Dogwood Dr SE, Conyers, GA 30012.

Bring your family, friends, and fellow dog lovers to meet these heroic dogs and learn how they make a difference in our community every day. We can't wait to see you there!

🐕💙

10/14/2024

"I recently attended the class at the Georgia Tech Research Institute, and I can confidently say it’s the most comprehensive K9 first aid course I've ever taken. As a K9 professional, our work demands that we be ready for anything, and this course truly delivers on that need. The depth of instruction—from handling K9 emergencies in both conventional and tactical environments to advanced paramedicine skills like IO fluid administration and surgical airways—ensures you are prepared for any situation.

The skill stations were incredibly valuable, with a focus on muscle memory that guarantees you can perform interventions even under stress or in challenging conditions. We repeated core skills until we could literally do them blindfolded, and the scenarios were tailored to our mission profiles, from treating heat stroke and bloat/GDV to handling tactical injuries like gunshot wounds and collapsed building extractions.

What stood out to me was the real-life application of these skills on live dogs. The instructors pushed us beyond basic vitals, teaching us ongoing assessments and trending during work cycles to catch issues early. The mix of solo and team scenarios brought everything together, requiring us to problem-solve in realistic field conditions.

I highly recommend K9 Medic to all K9 professionals. Whether you work in search and rescue, law enforcement, or any K9-related field, this course will give you the confidence and skills to respond in any situation. Absolutely a must-take!😀" - John Anthony S