Legendary rescue dog Poyraz retires after saving 7 lives in Türkiye

After serving in multiple disaster relief efforts across Türkiye and saving 7 lives, search and rescue dog “Poyraz” will spend his retirement at the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) facilities in Turkish city of Van.

“Poyraz,” a golden retriever, was introduced to AFAD at six months old and trained as a live search dog at AFAD’s Canine Training Center. Throughout his career, he was instrumental in locating people trapped in disasters such as earthquakes, avalanches, landslides, and building collapses, thanks to his highly sensitive nose.

One of “Poyraz’s” notable rescues was during the avalanche on the Van-Bahcesaray road on Feb. 4-5, 2020, which claimed 42 lives. He identified the location of four people buried under snow, leading to their rescue.

“Poyraz” also played a key role in the aftermath of the Elazig earthquake on Jan. 24, 2020, and during the Kahramanmaras-centered earthquakes on Feb. 6, 2023, when he located two individuals trapped for 85 hours under rubble in Malatya.

After years of service, “Poyraz” has retired due to health issues. He will remain at the canine training center, where he will receive care.

Saving 7 lives in its career

Dog trainer Niyazi Ozbek, who has been with “Poyraz” since 2016, shared the bond he developed with the dog over the years.

Ozbek noted that Poyraz was responsible for saving the lives of 7 people.

“Poyraz was instrumental in the rescue of seven people,” Ozbek said. “He joined us as a six-month-old puppy. His determination and playful nature stood out during training. In 2020, he helped rescue a citizen during the Elazig earthquake.

During the avalanche disaster in Van that same year, he rescued four people despite harsh weather conditions. His paws were frozen, yet he continued searching for survivors in the snow. In the Feb. 6, 2023 earthquake, ‘Poyraz’ helped rescue two children after 85 hours.”

Reflecting on their partnership, Ozbek added, “We worked together for nine years. The bond between us brought success in every mission, and he never let us down. Now, we’ll ensure he enjoys a well-deserved retirement.”