TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A search and rescue dog, Mulan (木蘭), from the New Taipei City Fire Department, passed away recently after succumbing to cancer, leading to an outpouring of emotion from firefighters and netizens.
After earthquakes rocked Hualien beginning on April 3, many media outlets reported the brave work of search and rescue dogs scouring dangerous environments for bodies despite falling rocks and other dangers. However, Mulan was relieved from this latest assignment due to her failing health, per CNA.
Six months after her birth in 2018, Mulan arrived at the New Taipei City Fire Department to be trained as a search and rescue dog. She was paired with the department’s dog team member, Lai Guan-jie (賴冠潔), and together the two passed multiple certifications, ranging from basic training to advanced certifications by the International Search and Rescue Dog Organization (IRO).
Later, Mulan and Lai would be deployed to mountain disasters, train derailments, and other disasters. Both dog handlers and rescue dogs are a common sight in many disasters and essential in the search for missing persons in difficult conditions.
Mulan was set for a life of service within the New Taipei City Fire Department until a hard lump in her chest was detected in June 2022. After a biopsy, Mulan was diagnosed with stage 2 cancer, which spread to her lymph nodes and pancreas. She was later outfitted with an assistive device, which allowed her to remain mobile.
Mulan continued to battle despite her deteriorating condition but her physical condition took a turn for the worse last year. She had surgery and was hospitalized, later passing away on April 24.
News of Mulan's death was posted to Facebook, soliciting a response from many heartbroken netizens. Many expressed pride that Mulan had “completed her mission” and was no longer suffering.
Lai was saddened by Mulan’s passing, posting on her Facebook page her gratitude for allowing her first search and rescue dog to be a wonderful partner. In their six years together, the duo went on many dangerous missions with great courage and determination.
