Rescue dogs and their handlers share an exceptionally close bond, one that transcends the typical human-animal relationship.
These dogs are not just pets but partners and comrades in the challenging and often perilous field of search and rescue.
Cliff, a search and rescue dog of the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department, passed away on Christmas Day last year due to a tumour in his bladder despite undergoing treatment, reported Sin Chew Daily.
It is an English Springer Spaniel born on 01/01/16 and began serving in Sarawak in 2018. At 7 years old, equivalent to 49 human years, Cliff dedicated its life to rescue missions.
The Department mourned its loss and held a simple funeral today at the Sibu Fire and Rescue Station, where Cliff resided since arriving in Sarawak.
Stephen, Cliff’s handler for six years, tearfully bade farewell to his “comrade-in-arms” at the funeral.
Dato’ Sirudin, director of the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department, stated that Cliff was trained to discover bodies in search and rescue operations. Cliff’s team significantly assisted in many search missions, including locating missing persons in forests.
He was very dedicated, always at the forefront, and could work for long hours.
“For Stephen, it was the loss of a friend, a family member. The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department, particularly its Canine (K9) Unit are deeply saddened and will be greatly impacted,” he said.
Speaking tearfully at the funeral, Stephen recalled that Cliff was just a puppy upon arriving from the UK to Sarawak in early 2018, where they built a close bond and worked together for years.
He also reminisced on the time when they had their first mission in December 2018 at a shopping mall explosion in Kuching, and their last mission was a drowning case in the inland area of Miri-Baram last October.
“We trekked for nearly seven hours to reach the deep inland, where Cliff successfully found the victim’s body on the riverbank.
“He was a smart, fast, and friendly dog, who was fond of interacting with people. I also clearly remember how excited he got easily and the times he’d become jealous when I went on missions with other rescue dogs by barking at my car.
While I’m finding it hard to accept Cliff’s passing, I’m proud of him for always completing tasks regardless of the challenges.
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