Search and Rescue Dogs in Action

The tension was high. Yesterday, the first dog teams arrived at the pass and stayed here overnight. In the morning, there was a professional tension. After registration, the dog teams take their positions. They are here to prove their operational capability after a long training. They have invested a lot for this and the tension is accordingly high.

I am allowed to accompany a team on the terrain search. A happily working dog and his calm handler master almost all requirements on the three-kilometer test track. They even sniff out a mushroom picker who was probably very surprised by that.

I am particularly interested in the alpine post, where the REDOG members also have to demonstrate their alpine skills. The scenario is complex and poses high challenges. Being a dog handler is much more than just dog sports. I have met the colleagues as very professional and extremely dedicated. It's great that there are people who take on this effort for society.

After the afternoon session, I say goodbye. My next stop is the Great St. Bernard Pass. The higher I go, the gloomier the weather becomes. The hospice is in the fog and wind-blown. I find a parking space next to the road and stabilize my camper as best as I can. Let's see how the night will be.

Since I'm early, I visit the museum. It is very lovingly done and really worth a visit. I am probably the last visitor of this season and get a personal guided tour.

And now I'm in the camper, listening to the hail showers and will probably soon prepare my spaghetti al pesto Genovese, drink a glass of red wine, and then go to bed early.