From rescued to rescuer, GRIN alum Bates is living quite the adventure. Recently, Bates, his human Carissa, and his big sister Boomies traveled from PA to IN for a seminar with Liam Search and Rescue (Liam SAR).
Bates joined the SAR team in January 2025 by working as a trailing dog; he was so attached to his mom, and with his puppy mill experience, they felt that he would thrive the most within this discipline. Fast-forward to August, Bates’ confidence was growing, and his obedience skills were impressive given his past life, and after consulting with the team, his discipline switched to air scent.
At the seminar, Bates’ confidence soared to new heights. This brave, adventurous boy accomplished so much at the Muscatatuck Urban Training Center.
Bates was hoisted going from the ground, over the top of a building, and back down, which was approximately 100 ft. He may have experienced harness paralysis, not wanting to walk when he touched back down.
Bates rode a swamp boat in a flooded village, getting on the roof of a building and receiving snackies through a small hole in the shingles from a friend below.
Bates searched the floor of an abandoned hospital and a jail. His first time working in buildings.
Bates worked in an underground tunnel system. While there were no subway cars or trains, the tunnel got progressively shorter in height and darker. He may have kept checking in on mom and their instructor for an extra confidence boost.
All of these experiences and environments are not only unique but also a challenge to work through for any working dog.
With all the team’s hard work and dedication, Carissa is hoping to get Bates certified as a wilderness air scent K9 soon, allowing him to serve his community when someone goes missing and needs help.
Keep up the great work, team!
