National Canine Research Council

Above and beyond their place as family companions and  in traditional service occupations, dogs in Louisiana serve in an ever-widening spectrum of therapeutic roles. The physical and emotional benefits to humans that come from relationships with dogs are now recognized and utilized by psychiatric facilities, assisted living centers, hospitals, schools and even prisons.

Louisiana recognizes the value of dogs, and in 1979 designated the Catahoula Leopard Dog as its official state dog.

Today, dogs contribute more to the welfare of individuals and society than perhaps any other time in the history of the human dog bond. Additionally, over the past three decades, increased awareness of the importance of humane care and control of dogs, the enactment and enforcement of leash laws, and dog bite prevention education, have all been instrumental in significantly lowering the number of reported dog-related injuries nationwide.

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*Ranger, a Labrador Retriever, began his search and rescue work for the Shreveport Fire Department in 2001. Ranger participates in approximately 40 search operations each year in Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas. Perhaps Ranger and Captain Foster’s most memorable accomplishment was their service to the people of  New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Between March and July of 2006, Ranger searched for victims’ remains in 2,800 collapsed homes, making more than a dozen important recoveries.

National Canine Research Council