Parks Canada to end mountain search and rescue dog program

Parks Canada has announced the termination of its mountain search and rescue dog program after 55 years. The decision to dissolve the final remaining team, located in Banff National Park, is part of broader government budget cuts and public service reductions.

Former trainer Scott Ward, who spent 17 years working in the Rocky Mountains, expressed concern that the loss of these specialized teams reduces a vital resource for public and staff safety. The park, which attracts over four million visitors annually, is situated in one of Canada's most challenging terrains.

Officials stated the move is part of a modernization of law enforcement departments and maintained that search and rescue operations will continue using other methods. The decision has sparked significant public backlash, including a petition signed by more than 5,000 people to preserve the program. The last service dog in the program, a German Shepherd named Leroy, retired in August.