In the aftermath of 9/11, more than 100 dogs scoured the twisted pile of concrete and ash where the World Trade Center once stood. They worked endlessly to assist the rescue teams in search of survivors at Ground Zero.
It has been 15 years since that day. That is a long time in a dog’s life. Over the years, most of those canine heroes have left us.
On the 6th June this year, the last known living 9/11 search and rescue dog, Bretagne, a 16-year-old golden retriever, was euthanised. 
Firefighters and rescue workers lined up outside and gave her a hero’ salute as she walked into Fairfield Animal Hospital in Cypress, Texas. She was 16 and was suffering as her kidneys had started to fail.
They saluted her again as she left the animal hospital, her body draped in an American flag, was carried out.
Denise Corliss took ownership of Bretagne when she was only an 8-week-old puppy, trained as a volunteer dog/handler team to help support emergency response efforts at disaster sites. The two of them spent more than 10 days at the World Trade Centre site after the 9/11 attacks, working 12-hour shifts. 
R.I.P. Bretagne. We shall not forget you and all the other canine heroes who have crossed the rainbow bridge, .
May’s comment: The day that changed so much of the world we knew.
As we solemnly remember each year of the many who perished that day, we are grateful to those who worked endlessly in the aftermath. And for the dogs who quietly went about their task. They not only assisted the rescue teams in the search and rescue of the living and locating the dead, they also brought comfort for the firemen and rescue workers during those gruesome days. 
4 Responses
Thank you, Bretagne, for your brave and patriotic work during 9/11 and the years following with your faithful rescue work. May you enjoy your days in play over the rainbow
bridge until you are united with your human family!
How fitting May, on 9/11 to be reminded of all the rescue workers and their four footed friends who gave service and solace.
Dear May,
How fitting to be reminded on this 15th anniversary of 9/11 of all the brave workers and the invaluable four footed teammates who never gave up in their rescue efforts.
Rest in peace dear Bretagne.
So sad. They all worked so hard just doing what they were told to do. If only they could tell their stories.