Heroes With Paws: Remembering The Dogs Who Gave Their All During 9/11

2024 marked 23 years of 9/11, that ill-fated day the US was attacked by cowardly terrorists, a day when thousands of victims and rescue workers died across the US. As we pay a heartfelt tribute to ground zero, and all those who lost their lives, let us not forget our four-legged heroes, over 300 rescue dogs who worked tirelessly alongside their human counterparts sniffing out victims and survivors from the rubble, and comforting those in need. While we cannot provide such an extensive list, here are 13 of the most famous K9s remembered for their heroism during and after 9/11.

#1 Riley: A Symbol of Hope at Ground Zero

Although every K9 deserves credit, Riley stood out captured in iconic photos being lifted onto the debris. Riley, a Golden Retriever, part of the FEMA’s Pennsylvania Task Force 1, became a beacon of hope during 9/11. He worked tirelessly for searching for survivors, bringing comfort to rescuers amid devastation. After providing over 13 years of love and service, Riley crossed the rainbow bridge in 2010, but his legacy lives on inspiring research on the health impact of search and rescue work on dogs.

#2 Appollo: The First Responder

Appollo, a German Shepherd from the NYPD Canine Special Operations Division, was one of the first canine responders on 9/11. Arriving just 15 minutes after the South Tower’s collapse, he worked tirelessly for weeks, searching for survivors. At one point, Apollo was almost killed by flames and falling debris, however, he survived, having been drenched after falling into a pool of water just before this incident. Appollo’s courage earned him several prestigious awards, including the AKC Humane Fund Award for Canine Excellence and the Dickin Medal, honoring his role and that of all search and rescue dogs involved in the aftermath. Apollo passed away in 2006.

#3 Sage: A Hero Across Borders

Sage, a Border Collie, served as one of FEMA’s top search and rescue dogs during the 9/11 Pentagon recovery. Her career spanned numerous disasters, from Hurricane Katrina to deployments in Iraq. Believe it or not, Sage even sniffed out the body of the terrorist who had flown Flight 77 into the building. Honored for her service, Sage’s work also contributed to studies on the long-term health of SAR dogs. Sage served in Iraq and passed away at 13 in 2012, remembered as a true hero.

#4 Bretagne: The Last Ground Zero Search Dog

Bretagne, a Golden Retriever, was the last known surviving search and rescue dog from Ground Zero. Alongside her handler Denise Corliss, she worked 12-hour shifts for 10 days after the attacks. In her retirement, she became a therapy dog, helping children improve their reading skills. Bretagne was euthanized in Texas in 2016; She was 16 years old and suffering from kidney failure. She was buried with full ceremonial honors befitting a hero.

#5 Trakr: The Life Saver

Trakr, a German Shepherd, and his handler, James Symington, made history by locating the last survivor Genelle Guzman, trapped in the rubble at the World Trade Center. Trakr’s heroism earned him a spot on TIME’s Top 10 Heroic Animals list. After his passing in 2009, Trakr’s legacy lived on through his five cloned puppies, continuing his work as search and rescue dogs.

#6 Jake: From Stray to Hero

Jake, an American Labrador retriever, was rescued by Mary Flood after being found as a stray with a broken leg and injured hip at just 10 months old. Against all odds, Jake became a hero during 9/11, spending 17 days searching for survivors and remains. Though he didn’t find survivors, his efforts earned him a well-deserved steak dinner. Later, Jake became one of the few U.S. government-certified rescue dogs, always on call for disasters. Jake passed away in 2007 at the age of 12. His resilience and dedication continue to inspire.

#7 Thunder: A Ray of Hope

Thunder, a golden retriever, traveled with his handler, Kent Olson, to assist in the 9/11 rescue mission. Always photographed with a cheerful smile, Thunder brought light to the dark days of the tragedy. He had previous experience in avalanche and water rescues, but 9/11 marked his most challenging mission. Thunder’s boundless joy and loyalty served as a reminder of the unwavering love dogs provide, even in the face of disaster. His presence alongside rescuers was a symbol of hope during the hardest times.

#8 Sirius: A Canine Hero’s Sacrifice

On September 11, 2001, Sirius, an explosive detection dog working in Tower II of the World Trade Center, gave his life in service. Alongside his handler, Officer David Lim, Sirius inspected vehicles for explosives entering the WTC. When the first plane hit Tower I, Lim left Sirius in their office, promising to return. Trapped during the rescue, Lim survived, but Tower II collapsed before he could reach Sirius. On January 25, 2002, Sirius’ remains were recovered and honored with the same respect given to fallen rescuers at Ground Zero. His sacrifice remains a testament to loyalty and bravery.

#9 Porkchop: A Tireless Hero Amid the Rubble of 9/11

Porkchop, a one-year-old Australian shepherd, worked tirelessly in the aftermath of 9/11, searching through the twisted wreckage of the World Trade Center. Day after day, with legs taped and new boots fitted by doctors, he combed the debris for signs of life or death. While he never found survivors, his relentless efforts uncovered countless human remains, bringing closure to many. In the brief moments of rest, Porkchop cracked acorns, ate ants, and watched Animal Planet, but he always returned to the rubble, embodying the resilience and dedication of the search and rescue teams.

#10 Roselle: A Guiding Light Amidst Chaos

On September 11, 2001, Roselle, a guide dog, led her blind owner Michael Hingson and colleagues from the 78th floor of Tower One, guiding them down 1,463 steps to safety just before the collapse. Unfazed by the chaos, she remained calm, offering love and comfort to those around her. Roselle’s remarkable bravery and unwavering focus that day were a testament to the power of trust and teamwork, inspiring all who knew her and leaving behind a legacy of resilience and hope.

#11 Cowboy: A Hero on Four Legs

FEMA handler Dave Richards and his K-9, Cowboy, arrived in New York just five days after the 9/11 attacks. One of hundreds of dog-and-handler teams, Richards trusted Cowboy’s incredible intelligence, often joking that Cowboy seemed to think he was “just a short person with four legs.” For two grueling weeks, they navigated the dangerous rubble of the World Trade Center, tirelessly searching through the debris in hopes of finding survivors.

# 12 Coby and Guinness: A Tireless Duo in the Rubble

Coby and Guinness, two Labrador retrievers, were thrust into the overwhelming chaos of 9/11, working tirelessly for 11 days straight in 12-hour shifts. Amid the noise and destruction, these dogs did exactly what they were trained for, recovering the remains of dozens of victims. Their bravery and focus amidst the devastation were remarkable. After 9/11, both dogs continued their search and rescue careers, assisting in various natural disasters, proving their dedication to saving lives wherever they were needed.

Dog: Man’s Most Loyal and Brave Best Friend

Wusel and Annie, therapy dogs, Ricky the smallest little dog at ground zero, Skyraider, the first responder at the Pentagon, and so many more. These were the four-legged heroes who worked relentlessly with little breaks, surprising humans with their resilience and bravery. They will be forever remembered and honored for their service at 9/11.