Retired Search and Rescue Dog Needs Help

When Marin County Fire Captain Jim Boggeri completed his training with the Search Dog Foundation in 2001, he found the perfect canine partner and lifelong companion in a handsome yellow lab named Recon.

“Our personalities jibed,” recalls Jim. “I took one look at Recon and knew we were made for each other!”

Over the course of several years, Jim and Recon were deployed to several disasters, including Hurricane Katrina and a Mill Valley mudslide in 2006. In 2005, Recon became 1 of only 170 FEMA-certified advanced search teams in the nation.

“On the job, Recon was totally committed, dedicated and driven to succeed,” says Jim. “Off the job he’s just a goofy lab with an incredible spirit.”

Recon, now retired, is now under observation at Bel Marin Animal Hospital in Novato. Doctors have not determined what is wrong with him, but he has had a fever for several days and no appetite. His condition has been described as “serious.”

The Marin Humane Society helps dogs like Recon through its donor-supported K9 Care program. Since 1998, the K9 Care program has assisted local police, fire, search-and-rescue and coast guard agencies with routine veterinary care, emergency trauma care, specialist referrals, safety equipment and boarding for service dogs — and retired service dogs — all at no cost. Currently, 12 dogs are active in the program while two dogs, including Recon, are in retirement.

Even with a generous discount in veterinary costs, it is estimated that Recon’s medical fees will be steep. Please make a donation today so that the Marin Humane Society can continue to care for Marin County service dogs like Recon.

Marin County’s working dogs spend years putting their lives on the line for us. Please support the K9 Care program and help us return the favor to our tail-wagging heroes.

To contribute to the K9 Care program, please donate online or call 415.506.6257.