Here at MYOS, we are extremely proud to support hardworking dogs and their dedicated handlers. Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking with Kayla, an inspiring Search and Rescue K9 handler, about her journey alongside her amazing K9 partner, Darwin.
For Kayla, her journey to becoming a Search and Rescue (SAR) K9 handler began years ago when a family friend of her's went missing. Due to her helpful and caring nature, being unable to help in this situation was very difficult and helped motivate Kayla to become a SAR K9 handler. She became certified when she completed the academy in 2005, and after graduating from school, Kayla returned to her calling with her dog, Darwin, in 2012. Together, they have been making an impact ever since.
Darwin, Kayla's energetic and dedicated dog, earned his certification in 2014 and has been working alongside Kayla ever since. Kayla also has a younger SAR dog, Gaia, who recently turned five. Their work in the world of Search and Rescue is entirely volunteer-based, making her dedication to SAR K9 work even more impressive.
The Training Behind the Scenes
On any given day, Kayla makes sure her dogs get both physical and mental stimulation. They attend training sessions two to three times per week with one of the two SAR teams she is part of. Training in all types of weather and at different times of day is crucial since they never know when they may be called to search. In addition to search drills, they incorporate other exercises like strength training and physical therapy to keep their bodies strong and agile, particularly for older dogs like Darwin.
A favorite exercise for both Darwin and Gaia is working with cavalettis, which are ground poles that help with core strengthening and improving foot placement. Kayla also does pivoting drills with her dogs to work their back legs, all of which helps maintain their mobility and fitness as they age.
Since both dogs work off-leash, it is crucial that they have impeccable obedience, especially when near potential dangers like roads, heavy machinery, or wildlife. With regular training and reinforcement, both Darwin and Gaia are always prepared for the challenges they may face during searches.
The Rewarding but Challenging World of Search and Rescue
Kayla describes being a SAR K9 handler as extremely rewarding. Over the years, she and her dogs have participated in numerous searches, and there have been moments where they were able to locate missing individuals—moments she describes as incredibly gratifying. Even when they’re not the team to make the find, knowing they contributed to the effort gives Kayla and her dogs a sense of fulfillment.
However, the reality of SAR work also involves challenges. Not every search ends in finding the missing person. Some searches end inconclusively, and others may take months to resolve. It can be hard, knowing that someone is out there and being unable to find them. Yet, despite these challenges, Kayla and her dogs' commitment to helping families and contributing to her community never wavers.
For a live-find certification in their state, dogs must search nearly 120 acres to find 1 to 3 subjects in 3 to 4 hours, which is an extremely challenging test. Darwin’s dedication has been evident in these tests— in his most recent one, at nearly 12 years old, he completed the challenging search in just two and a half hours!
The Role of MYOS in Darwin's Work
As Darwin aged, Kayla noticed the beginning signs of muscle atrophy, something common in senior dogs. She decided to try MYOS after a recommendation from a friend and Darwin’s physical therapist. Within 4-6 weeks, Kayla noticed significant improvement in Darwin's muscles. This support has been crucial in allowing Darwin to continue working and even pass his most recent certification. Kayla is grateful for MYOS, as it has given Darwin the ability to continue doing what he loves—working as a SAR K9.
Kayla shared that "without MYOS, I don’t think Darwin would have been able to pass his most recent certification this past May, and I don't think his muscles would be where they are today." For Kayla, seeing Darwin still excited and capable of doing his job at almost 12 years old is incredibly fulfilling.
Support Your Local Search and Rescue Teams
All Search and Rescue work is completely volunteer-based. For those inspired by Kayla and Darwin’s story, she encourages people to find their local SAR team and get involved or make a donation. Supporting SAR K9 teams like Kayla's ensures that these dedicated individuals and their dogs can continue to serve communities in need, bringing hope and help when it is needed most!
