Ruapehu Rescue Dogs
One of the most effective methods of avalanche rescue is through smell. Dogs can be trained to hunt out a human scent coming from deep within the snow. Here at Mt Ruapehu we are proud to be working with several avalanche rescue dogs at present. They introduce themselves briefly below.
About the Ruapehu Rescue Dogs
All of the dogs must undergo stringent training regimes including kiwi aversion, how to ride under helicopters, on snow groomers and, of course, how to rescue buried avalanche victims. All certification is under the New Zealand Alpine Search Dog Association and NZ Land Search and Rescue standards and must be re-certified annually.
If you are interested in meeting one of the avalanche rescue dogs or finding more information on them keep your eyes open; on nice days they hang out in their kennels at the Ski Patrol Bases on both Whakapapa and Turoa.
Introducing the Ruapehu Rescue Dogs
Ice
Ice is the newest member of the Couch family and at nearly 4 years old she has just gained certification for rescue work. She's had lots of tips from her older sister Bess who was on the squad for 6 seasons and is now retired. Ice loves her work on the mountain and enjoys clowning around with Bess and the rest of the Couch family.
Montana
Montana is in training and has even been down to the south island just to work on his training this year. He is the most senior dog on the Rescue squad but unfortunately lost his certification this year so is working really hard for re-certification next year. He's a really placid dog and loves hanging out at home with his handler, Denim, and running through the bush when Denim goes mountain-biking.
Jack
Jack is a black lab pup, nearly two years old and lives with his handler, Craig, and Steph, who is a vet! He's super enthusiastic and LOVES being out in the snow. He's still in training and hopes to be fully certified next year after a great season this year. He's even been for a ride in a helicopter! At home he enjoys long walks and swimming and in summer he loves hanging out on the boat.
