Having reached the age of 16, the last surviving rescue dog that participated in the recovery efforts after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in New York has unfortunately passed away. Bretagne, a golden retriever, had to be euthanized due to kidney failure at a veterinary clinic located in Cypress, a suburb situated near Houston, Texas. During the aftermath of 9/11, close to 100 rescue dogs were deployed within a 10-day period in order to locate and save individuals who were trapped in the debris of the World Trade Center. In her final moments, Bretagne received the company of approximately 24 firefighters from the Cy-Fair Fire Department in Harris County, Texas. Denise Corliss, the dog’s owner and a volunteer firefighter, accompanied Bretagne on her last journey. After the procedure had concluded, the retriever was brought out of the hospital while being draped in an American flag. The Cy-Fair Volunteer Fire Department, the organization where Bretagne served, conveyed their utmost gratitude for her service, emphasizing that she was not just a pet, but she was regarded as a civil servant, a hero, and a cherished member of their fire department family. They intend to remember Bretagne with great fondness while also drawing inspiration from her remarkable legacy as they continue to serve their community.
