New fire hall recruit has a special talent

Times Reporter   

 

The Strathmore Fire Department (SFD) can add a new talent to the list when it comes to search and recovery cases. Java, a Dutch Shepherd and the newest member of the department, is a cadaver dog who specializes in water searches. 

“This is a very special opportunity, it’s very unique, and it’s a one of a kind opportunity,” said SFD Chief Muir Furzer. 

“Watching him operate in water is just phenomenal, how they can search and recover.”

Java completed his certification with the North America Police Work Dog Association in late 2012. He began his training at three-months-old and is also certified through the Canadian Search Dog Association. 

“With Java because he has very special skills, and he is still a young pup he’s only 18 months, there’s still going to be some additional training down in the States,” said Furzer. 

In order to have Java go for additional training there is some concern about funding.  

“I want the public to be aware that yes we do have a search dog here but this is a privately funded search dog, not being funded by the taxpayers at all. Our goal here is to seek corporate funding,” said Furzer.

The Calgary Fire Department has a search dog whose training and equipment are 100 per cent funded. The ultimate goal is for the SFD to find that type of sponsorship with Java. 

Other departments in the area don’t have a dog like him, but he will be able to assist them. The chief will be meeting with other chiefs in the area about Java, outlining who he is and what skills he has to offer when the call for recovery comes in. 

“It’s a good opportunity for him to specialize in water searches and it gives back to my own community, and others as well. It’s nice to be able to be involved in your own town,” said Marijke Barnson, Java’s owner and trainer. 

Barnson is also one of the newest members of the SFD. She will be training with the other members, learning the basic skills.  

“I haven’t done a lot of firefighter training but I am looking forward to the challenges that would bring,” said Barnson. 

On Jan. 10 Barnson and Java headed to Fort Lauderdale to work with Greg Strickland, a NAPWDA trainer. Anyone who would be interested in helping sponsor Java can contact Muir Furzer at 403-934-3022.