The Strathcona Regional District is expressing its condolences after a retired RCMP validated Wilderness SAR Dog passed away earlier this month.
Keeva was the K-9 companion to long-time Campbell River Search and Rescue member Daryl Beck and his family.
Regional District Chair Michele Babchuk says she is thankful for Keeva’s 6 years of service on the search and rescue team.
“Keeva was the first validated SAR dog in Campbell River Search and Rescue. We say goodbye to Keeva with deep sorrow and we are grateful for her service to our community.”
Grant Cromer, Search Manager with Campbell River Search and Rescue, says K-9 resources are very valuable as they stay on track regardless of distractions.
“They’re able to focus on the job and are relentless in their energy and drive. K-9 handlers and their dogs enjoy a unique relationship, they are trained as working dogs but are dogs at heart and Keeva had a great spirit and sense of play as well,” Cromer says.
Cromer added that Keeva performed admirably in her service years and was very successful in reuniting people back with their families.
Two custom driftwood portraits of Keeva have been gifted to Daryl Beck and the Campbell River Search and Rescue on behalf of the Strathcona Regional District.
“This was a very small way for us to pay tribute to a dog who truly has been a hero,” says Protective Services Coordinator Shaun Koopman. “Just because Keeva was a K-9 doesn’t make her any less part of our program than any other member.”
The district would like to thank artist Alex Witcombe from Driftwood Creations in Campbell River for all his hard work creating the portraits of Keeva during the busy holiday season.
