"Hello! Rescue Dog Gringo, Thank You for Your Hard Work!"

Over 150 Dispatches, 2 Survivors Rescued, 10 Deceased Handed Over

Gringo, who concluded over 8 years of activity with a retirement ceremony. (Photo by Gyeongnam Province)

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kang Sharon] The search and rescue dog 'Gringo' will conclude over eight years of field activity with an honorable retirement ceremony at the Sancheong Fire Station on the 30th.

Born in 2011, Gringo (a German Shepherd) completed more than two years of training in mountain, collapse, and search rescue dog education before being assigned to Gyeongnam, where he responded to calls for help from residents across the province.

Gringo, who holds the highest level A qualification in mountain rescue, led 10 deceased accident victims in rugged mountainous terrain back to their families and rescued two survivors, making significant contributions to protecting the lives of residents.

In 2017, he earned 2nd place in the team event at the National Search and Rescue Dog Competition, gaining the interest and love of the residents.

At 10 years old in dog years, equivalent to about 70 in human years, it is judged that further field activity would be too strenuous for Gringo after eight years of service.

Accordingly, the Gyeongnam Fire Headquarters plans to hold a retirement ceremony on the 30th and then place Gringo as a new family member in the home of Mr. Kim Oe-cheol, who was selected through a public contest.

Trainer Son Ki-jeong, who has lived with Gringo for eight years, said, "I have always felt gratitude and regret toward Gringo, who roamed rugged mountains and rescued residents for eight years," adding, "I hope he will enjoy a happy time as a beloved pet in a comfortable home after retirement."

Heo Seok-gon, head of the Gyeongnam Fire Headquarters, stated, "Search and rescue dogs are second rescuers who have devoted their lives to the mission of saving residents' lives," and added, "We will support a comfortable life after retirement, commend their efforts, and continue to show care and love through regular visits to the adoptive family."