Well, this is episode #8 (not #7 - apparently I've lost track)!

So many experiences shared in this episode.

Sonja Heritage is likely one of the most experienced FEMA Disaster Response Search and Rescue Dog Handlers and trainers in the United States. As a former member of the FEMA Virginia TF1 and State Department Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance USAID, she has traveled the world for more than two decades with her Disaster SAR K9s, responding to earthquakes, bombings, hurricanes, and mudslides in Turkey, Nairobi, Haiti, Taiwan, and throughout the United States. Currently a FEMA Certified handler with FEMA’s CATF-5, her most recent deployment was the Montecito California Mudslides in 2018. Sonja has deployed with four of her own K9s but also been responsible for the training of many FEMA Disaster response K9's privately and as the Head Trainer for the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation in Southern CA from 2012 – 2018. She has also received numerous awards and commendations for her work and training provided to others. 

Sonja Heritage can be located on Facebook at Heritage K9 LLC. Here is a list of Sonja's Disaster Deployments with her K9s:

FEMA and the State Department   Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance USAID

• Montecito Mudslides 2018
• Haiti Earthquake. Port–au- Prince, 2010
• Hurricane Earl 2010
• Earthquake, Chile 2010
• School Collapse, Port–au- Prince Haiti 2008
• Hurricane Gustav 2008
• Hurricane Ike 2008
• Hurricane Ernesto 2006
• Hurricane Isabel, Fairfax VA 2005
• Hurricane Ophelia 2006
• Hurricane Rita, Dallas TX 2005
• Hurricane Katrina, Gulfport MS and New Orleans LA 2005
• Earthquake, Bam Iran 2003
• Space Shuttle Columbia, TX 2003
• Pentagon, 2001
• Pentagon- Operation Nobel Eagle –Human Remains Recovery 2001
• Earthquake, Toliou, Taiwan 1999
• Earthquake, Izmit Turkey 1998
• US Embassy, Nairobi Kenya 1998

Show Sponsors:

SONJA'S DOG TRAINING:  www.sonjasdogtraining.com ~ Offering one-on-one general training and detection/scent work workshops and seminars for the SAR/Human Remains Detection K9 Handlers and Trainers. Sonja brings to training an extensive history and a unique blend of K9 sport, SAR K9 training and field work, investigative field experience, legal and courtroom experience, and a treasure trove of component and precision-based K9 training techniques to address the most challenging aspects and applications of Human Remains Detection K9 training for both Handler and K9. Now also available via Zoom and Facetime!

HEIMDALLR K9 SERVICES: www.heimdallrk9.com ~ Heimdallr Services, is a supplier of top quality K9s for personal, family, and executive protection. Heimdallr conducts hands-on selection from the finest breeders and kennels in Europe to locate top tier dogs selected for their courage, stability, sociability, and health. We are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding adding a protection dog to your home and look forward to hearing from you.

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