Pooch Love

09/11/2025

The Working Dogs of 9/11: Heroes of Rescue and Recovery

A Vital Role in the Aftermath

After the September 11, 2001 attacks, working dogs played an essential role in the rescue and recovery operations. It is estimated that around 300 dogs were deployed at Ground Zero and the Pentagon, working side by side with thousands of human responders.

Their Main Roles

- Search and Rescue Dogs (SAR): trained to locate survivors among the rubble.

- Cadaver Dogs (HRD – Human Remains Detection): specialized in detecting human remains, helping bring closure to families.

- Therapy Dogs: provided emotional comfort to firefighters, police officers, and families devastated by the tragedy.

- Police & Security K9s: worked on securing the area and detecting explosives.

Harsh Conditions and Sacrifice

These dogs endured long shifts in extremely difficult conditions — toxic dust, smoke, and unstable structures. Many later suffered respiratory and other health problems due to their exposure.

Some of them are especially remembered with great affection, such as Bretagne, a Golden Retriever who was one of the last surviving members of that canine rescue team (she passed away in 2016).

The Most Common Breeds at Zero Zone:

- Labrador Retriever – widely used for search and rescue due to their strong sense of smell, stamina, and gentle nature.

- Golden Retriever – valued for their sensitivity and strong bond with humans, often serving in therapy as well.

- German Shepherd – primarily employed in search, detection, and security roles.

- Belgian Malinois – widely used by police and military units for explosive detection and security.

- Border Collie – recognized for their intelligence and ability to stay highly focused.

Other Dogs Who Served:

- Rottweiler – fewer in number, but also took part in search and rescue missions.

- Bloodhound – prized for their extraordinary scent-tracking abilities.

- Mixed-breed dogs – several rescue dogs, specially trained for search work, also contributed.

A Legacy of Service

Each of these dogs was specifically trained for their unique role: some to locate the living, others to recover remains, and others to provide comfort. Their bravery, loyalty, and dedication left a lasting legacy.

We will never forget the working dogs of 9/11.



destacados

09/05/2025

It was a true pleasure to celebrate our furry friend Maverick on his 6th birthday. 🙌🐾

We sincerely thank Sky Academy, the Pup-Owners, and all staff and students for their warmth and kindness. A special acknowledgment to Nathy and her Family for granting us the opportunity to provide our grooming services during such a meaningful and unforgettable occasion. 💙✂️🐶

09/05/2025

It was a true pleasure to celebrate our furry friend Maverick on his 6th birthday. 🙌🐾

We sincerely thank Sky Academy, the Pup-Owners, and all staff and students for their warmth and kindness. A special acknowledgment to Nathy and her Family for granting us the opportunity to provide our grooming services during such a meaningful and unforgettable occasion. 💙✂️🐶

09/05/2025

We extend our gratitude to God who gave us the grace and privilege to have this opportunity. Also to Bella Line and Fox 4 News for their interest in covering this matter and for raising awareness within the community about the unfortunate reality we face today with the emergence of artificial intelligence, a tool capable of generating virtually anything. While this technology is accessible to all, it has regrettably been misused by individuals who, with calculated intent, exploit those less familiar with it—particularly in moments of distress—making them vulnerable to deception. We earnestly hope this message reaches our community, at the very least to provide caution and awareness. Moreover, it is our sincere wish that this news may also reach whoever has found Cocoa. We long for her safe return to her home and family, who miss her profoundly.

To all our valued Pet Parents searching for their beloved lost pets, please stay cautious. We know how difficult this time is, but try not to respond too quickly to calls or messages, as sadly, could escalate and result in serious consequences.

To the family of our furry friend Cocoa, please accept our deepest support and solidarity during this difficult time. We stand with you and sincerely hope for the most positive outcome.

Bella, May God bless you always! Kind regards, Pooch Love🙏🐾

destacados

A Bokeelia family is warning of scammers targeting missing pet owners on social media after encountering fake messages while searching for dog Cocoa.

09/04/2025

Struggle is real here in SW Florida 🤷🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️☀️🥤

08/31/2025

Cocoa is still missing. Help us to reunite with her Family.
🙏🐾

Please spread the word! The owner is following this post. If you have any information, please comment below.

08/28/2025

ALERT 🚨

It’s unbelievable and disrespectful how some people exploit others during difficult times. I’ve already received two scam emails today, and it’s truly a sad reflection of our society. Please be cautious and learn to spot these tricks early so you don’t fall victim to scammers. Take a look at this AI-altered photo. Nice try, but the chair literally goes through the dog. I’m making this public as a warning for my entire community of lost pet seekers. Be very careful! 👀

08/28/2025

In loving memory of our faithful companions who have crossed the rainbow bridge. Though their paws no longer walk beside us, their love will forever remain in our hearts. To all pet parents who have said goodbye, may you find comfort in knowing that the bond you shared is eternal, and the joy they brought will always shine through your memories. At Pooch Love, we understand your grief and stand in solidarity with all who have lost a beloved dog.” 🌈🐾✨

AUGUST 28TH IS "NATIONAL RAINBOW BRIDGE DAY."

Much like the upcoming "National Pet Remembrance Day" that we celebrate on the second Sunday in September, "National Rainbow Bridge Day" is an opportunity to mourn and celebrate the lives of the wonderful pets that we have lost.

While there are many wonderful ways to honor a pet that has passed, we believe that the finest course of action is to help better the lives of homeless, shelter animals.

Consider volunteering at a local shelter...walking dogs, assisting with laundry, collecting donated supplies. It is a wonderful way to remember and appreciate a pet who has passed!

05/29/2025

True Story 😅 Even for dogs, especially those with long hair, humidity also affects their skin. Keep your dog’s coat healthy.

A dog with an unhealthy coat will have dry and brittle hair with lots of loose hair in the coat. The coat itself may also be greasy or have a dusty appearance and include bald spots and an unpleasant oily smell.

All dogs need a good grooming regimen. Contact us today for an evaluation of your dog. Let Pooch Love take care of the skin and coat of your FurBabies. Enjoy your 10% off in your first grooming appointment. ✂️🐾🐩

destacados

WINK News

Accurate 🤣🤣

04/08/2025

🗣️Be their voice!

END THE SILENCE. STOP THE SUFFERING!

SWFL Crime Stoppers and the Gulf Coast Humane Society are working together to put an end to dog fighting and animal abuse with four (4) new billboard locations.

We encourage animal lovers across Southwest Florida to take action! If you see or suspect dog-fighting or animal abuse in your community, don't hesitate to report it. Call our Crime Stoppers tip line at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477) or on our website, www.southwestfloridacrimestoppers.com or on the P3 Tips app.

Billboard locations:
1️⃣ MLK west of Michigan
2️⃣ SR 80 west of I-75
3️⃣ N US 41 south of Lakeville Dr.
4️⃣ N US 41 north of Littleton Rd.
Pd by CSTF

04/08/2025

Pooch Love Familiy…please, pay attention to this!!! Zero tolerance to animal cruelty!!! ❌😤🚫🤨

"NATIONAL DOG FIGHTING AWARENESS DAY"

Observed annually on April 8th, "National Dog Fighting Awareness Day" serves to remind the community of the ongoing existence of organized dog fighting, as well of the cruelty involved.

Law enforcement generally learns about these dog fighting rings through tips provided by community members and, on this day, the Lee County Animal Cruelty Task Force and Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers asks residents to pay attention to signs of dog fighting.

Signs of organized dog fighting include, but are not limited to the following:

Mangled lips and/or ears, facial scars, puncture wounds, dogs on heavy chains, dirt rings/small enclosures, breaking sticks (wooden or metal rods about 12 to 16 inches long), camera/recording equipment, blood-stained floors and excessive amounts of canine vitamins and supplements.

PLEASE...report any and all suspicious activity to your local law enforcement and follow up on your report!