Dog Names Meaning Helper

In the face of danger and tragedy, one dog stood out as a hero. Handled by James Symington, a Canadian police officer, Trakr has lived a long a fruitful life of bravery. Trained in the Czech Republic, and enlisted in Halifax Regional Police's canine unit, he served for six years. His work was to track, just as his name suggests, contraband and criminals. While he retired in May of 2001, Trakr and Symington sprang into action in September in response to the 9/11 attacks.

Trakr and his handler searched Ground Zero for survivors - a daunting task that weighs heavy not only physically, but emotionally as well. Trakr's training became of much help to the crew, saving many lives in an efficient and wonderful manner. He would find signs of life under the rubble and alert the team. He suffered some injuries from the efforts. He is cited to have found the last survivor of the 9/11 attacks, three days after the onset of the tragedy.

Trakr passed away in April of 2009 at the age of 14, believed to be due to complications from toxic fumes from 9/11's Ground Zero. His once powerful legs that wandered through the smoke and debris had failed due to a neurological disorder called degenerative myelopathy. Before he died, he was admitted to Pawspice, a California dog hospice, and was even given a cart so that he could move around independently.

Now, Trakr has the distinction of being a dog deemed worthy of cloning. In June of 2009 his DNA samples produced 5 clones, accomplished by California's BioArts International. Trakr once again made headlines in a move that divided the world and dog lovers alike. The debate still lives on, but in 2011 all five clones entered training as search and rescue canines, undoubtedly helping many more lives and solving more crimes.

Trakr fulfilled his job and his goals, but not because he would be recognized or would be promoted through the ranks. He did this job because he could! His help is invaluable to the world and shows how powerful and industrious the assistance of a canine friend could be.