The powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28 caused severe damage not only at its epicenter but also impacted Bangkok, Thailand, leading to the collapse of a high-rise building under construction. In the critical hours that followed, alongside rescue teams, highly trained search and rescue (SAR) dogs emerged as indispensable heroes, sniffing out survivors trapped under the rubble. This article explores the vital role of SAR dogs in earthquake disasters and how they save countless lives.
1. SAR Dogs – The Four-Legged Superheroes in Disaster Zones
When earthquakes strike, the "golden 72 hours" are crucial for finding survivors. Specially trained SAR dogs excel because they can:
Detect human scent under layers of concrete and debris, thanks to a sense of smell 10,000–100,000 times stronger than humans.
Work in hazardous conditions (smoke, gas leaks, aftershocks).
Locate living victims by picking up on breath, sweat, and even skin bacteria.
Example: During the 2015 Nepal earthquake, SAR dogs rescued 16 people buried under rubble after 5 days.
2. Why Are SAR Dogs More Effective Than Machines?
Agility: They can squeeze into tight spaces where robots cannot reach.
Speed: One SAR dog can cover 1,000 m² in just 30 minutes, while humans may take hours.
Endurance: They only need short breaks, unlike machines that may overheat or run out of power.
3. Top Dog Breeds Used in Earthquake Rescue Missions
| Breed | Key Strengths |
|---|---|
| Border Collie | Highly intelligent, agile, and trainable |
| Labrador Retriever | Exceptional scent detection, patient demeanor |
| German Shepherd | Strong endurance, works well in extreme conditions |
| Belgian Malinois | Preferred by military and police for high-intensity missions |
4. SAR Dogs in Action After the Bangkok Earthquake
Following the March 28 quake, Thai rescue teams deployed SAR dogs to the collapsed building site in Bang Sue. Images of these dogs intensely sniffing through debris moved the public, showcasing their silent yet life-saving contributions.
In earthquake disasters, SAR dogs are not just animals—they are true lifesavers. Their extraordinary abilities have minimized casualties in major quakes worldwide, from Japan and Nepal to Thailand. Greater investment in SAR dog training and deployment is essential to enhance disaster preparedness for future emergencies.
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