911 for 9/11 Search and Rescue Dogs – Dr. Otto is three years into a study of health issues experienced by service dogs who were deployed to the 9/11 disaster sites for rescue work. The initial study spanned three years. Each year post-9/11, the dogs had x-rays and blood panels taken annually by their local veterinarians. All blood samples and x-ray results were sent to Dr. Otto. Blood tests at the end of the first year showed that the deployed dogs had significantly higher levels of a blood protein called immunoglobulin and of two liver values than did the control group dogs. While the reason for this increase is unknown, it is likely a response to the increased exposure of the deployed dogs to substances that stimulated their immune systems (e.g., toxins or inhaled particles). The above link gives details of the ongoing study.
HAWS – Humane Animal Welfare Society promotes the humane care and treatment of all animals and supports cooperative humane efforts throughout the state of Wisconsin. Not associated with any other local or national humane society.
Animal Planet One of the dogs from 911bc, Zip, was featured on an episode of K9-5 Working Dogs on Animal Planet.
War Dogs A site honoring war dogs and the men who served with them.
The Disaster Center’s Wisconsin Page – National Weather Forecasts and other useful information helpful to SAR and disaster groups
Brian L Peterson, M.D. – Milwaukee County Medical Examiner
Lynda Biedrzycki, M.D. – Waukesha County Medical Examiner
Atlas Outfitters – Serving Public Safety Agencies Everywhere with the finest Training and Gear