What started as a casual neighborhood encounter turned into a life-changing journey for Sonya Kristie. Thirteen years ago, while walking her German Shepherd puppy, she ran into a neighbor who was part of a search and rescue team. They invited her to join a training session—and Sonya and her dog were instantly hooked. From that day forward, search and rescue (SAR) became not just a hobby, but a passion and a mission.
After the passing of her first dog, Sonya stayed connected with her SAR network and joined a new team, Sarasota K9 Search and Rescue. With her new puppy, she underwent a rigorous application process—one that evaluated both her and her dog for their potential to succeed as a working team. That puppy eventually grew into a strong and dedicated SAR dog, and Sonya continued to deepen her experience and training. Today, she works alongside Onyx, her Dutch Shepherd with boundless energy and dedication.
Fueling a Picky Eater: How MYOS Helped Onyx Thrive
Early in his development, Onyx faced a challenge that many working dog handlers are familiar with: he was a picky eater. Sonya tried a variety of diets—kibble, raw food, different formulas—but nothing seemed to help him gain healthy weight or muscle tone. He was active and energetic, but noticeably lean, even by working dog standards.
Everything changed when a trainer gave her a sample of MYOS Canine Muscle Formula. She noticed improvements and kept Onyx on the supplement, especially after learning about MYOS's science-backed ingredients and how other SAR handlers and trainers incorporated it into their routines. With consistent use, Onyx began to develop the muscle mass he needed—not bulky, but strong and lean. MYOS became a key part of his routine, giving him the nutritional support needed to perform at his best.
The Heart of the Mission
Sonya and Onyx specialize in the field of human remains detection (HRD), a discipline that, while not about saving lives in real-time, plays a critical role in providing closure to families. Many of the cases she’s involved in are cold cases that span years or even decades. She and her team often work across Florida and beyond, searching tirelessly to uncover even the smallest clue that could help bring closure.
The work can be emotional—witnessing the pain and uncertainty of families hoping for answers—but it’s also deeply meaningful. On a recent deployment, Sonya recalled a moment where one of the impacted families presented the team with small keychains inscribed with messages of gratitude and pride. These gestures are powerful reminders of the impact SAR teams can have, even in the hardest moments.
Fitness for Function: Stretching, Strength, and Recovery
To keep Onyx strong and injury-free, Sonya incorporates a well-rounded fitness routine built on both experience and lessons from her previous dog’s recovery journey. She focuses on mobility exercises like figure-eights for flexibility, back-leg stretches using low platforms, and cavaletti-style drills that build coordination and balance. Onyx also benefits from regular walks, massage therapy to loosen tight muscles, and gentle leg extensions to maintain range of motion.
Stronger Together
Sonya and Onyx are part of a remarkable network of search and rescue teams who volunteer their time, energy, and heart to serve their communities. Their dedication, discipline, and compassion are at the core of this vital work. Here at MYOS, we’re honored to support Onyx’s health and strength with MYOS, and to help fuel the efforts of teams like theirs. If you’re inspired by their story, consider spreading awareness about the world of SAR K9s, donating to local volunteer organizations, or simply thanking a handler near you. Together, we can support the dogs and humans behind these life-changing missions!
