Wilson, a three-year-old Jack Russell Terrier with the Hualien County Fire Department, became a household name in Taiwan after his remarkable performance during the devastating earthquake that struck Hualien on April 3, 2024. Nicknamed the "Little Steel Cannon" for his agility and determination, Wilson played a pivotal role in the search and rescue mission at the Shakadang Trail in Taroko National Park, helping locate several victims in the disaster's aftermath. His heroic deeds earned him the admiration and affection of people across Taiwan, who hailed him as a "fur hero".
The Hualien County Search Dog Team
The Hualien County Fire Department's search dog team, established three years ago, consists of three dogs:
- Fancy: A Labrador Retriever
- Hero: A four-year-old Labrador Retriever
- Wilson: The Jack Russell Terrier who rose to fame after the 2024 earthquake
According to Fire Department Director Wu Chao-yuan, Wilson passed the IRO Intermediate Certification two years ago, officially joining the rescue team. The 2024 earthquake was his first mission, where his nimbleness, quick reflexes, and keen sense of smell enabled him to make significant contributions along the hardest-hit sections of the Shakadang Trail.
Tragic Accident During Training
Tragically, news of Wilson's death has left many saddened. In June, during a training exercise on the third floor of the department's training tower, Wilson was searching for a target item when he dashed toward the rope access point used by rescuers. Due to an unsecured gate, Wilson fell from the third floor and did not survive the accident. Director Wu expressed deep regret, admitting that the handler was negligent in ensuring the safety of the training area and received a formal reprimand. The handler, who had worked closely with Wilson for three years, was devastated by the loss. To help him recover emotionally, he was temporarily reassigned and provided with counseling.
Honoring Wilson's Legacy
To honor Wilson's dedication and contributions, the department has arranged for his remains to be specially preserved, with plans to create a memorial monument for future remembrance. Director Wu also highlighted the significant investment in manpower, time, and resources required to train search and rescue dogs. He emphasized the importance of thorough safety checks and attentive supervision during training to prevent similar tragedies.
Looking Ahead
With the remaining two rescue dogs now four to five years old, the department plans to request an additional small-breed dog from Customs to complement the existing team. This will allow the team to adapt to different rescue scenarios by combining the strengths of both large and small rescue dogs.
Wilson's story is a poignant reminder of the courage and dedication of search and rescue dogs—and the deep bonds they share with their handlers. His legacy will live on, inspiring future generations of rescuers and the people of Taiwan.
