The Center for Forensic Training and Education and Spike’s K9 Fund disaster training at the Menlo Park rescue site in California was a great experience for Suzanne and Kili and included a fitness test, a talk by Michael Ellis and 4 training stations, each with industry experts – Medical/Decon, Pallet Pile, Rubble & Building searches.

“With the number of disasters in the US and worldwide becoming more prevalent, it was gratifying to receive a scholarship and be able to work with top notch K9 trainers and seasoned FEMA K9 handlers. Opportunities like this help me and other local K9 SAR volunteer teams understand their own capabilities and ability to deploy effectively in the first hours when disaster strikes. This is when we have the greatest possibility of finding live victims. Kili and I are grateful for this opportunity and stand on the ready.” – Suzanne Elshult