Sunderland Fire Department welcomes K-9 Ranger as newest member

SUNDERLAND, Mass. (WWLP) – The Sunderland Fire Department has welcomed a special new member to its team: K-9 Ranger, a nationally certified search and rescue dog, and is set to play a crucial role in helping find missing persons.

K-9 Ranger is the first search and rescue dog employed by a fire service in the state, marking a significant addition to Sunderland’s emergency response capabilities.

K-9 Ranger, who is specially trained to locate missing individuals within a 24-hour window, brings a unique skill set to the department. His arrival was announced as part of the department’s “Meet a Member Monday” initiative, which aims to introduce community members to the firefighters and personnel dedicated to their safety.

When he’s not on duty, K-9 Ranger enjoys a variety of activities with his handler, Firefighter Matt Manheim. The pair can often be found playing fetch, going for walks, or simply relaxing at home with belly rubs and naps on the couch. Their strong bond and teamwork are integral to their effectiveness in search and rescue operations.

K-9 Ranger’s training allows him to track scents in both urban and rural settings, making him a valuable asset in diverse situations where traditional search methods may be challenging.

The Sunderland Fire Department is proud to have K-9 Ranger on board and looks forward to his contributions to keeping the community safe. With K-9 Ranger and Firefighter Manheim ready to serve, residents can feel reassured knowing they have a dedicated team working tirelessly to protect and assist them in times of need.

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