Proteo Dog Training Course in Kayseri Honors Fallen Mexican Rescue Dog

In Kayseri, Türkiye, a 590-square-meter dog training course named after Proteo, a Mexican rescue dog who died during search and rescue operations after the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes, provides free training to 45 dogs every Sunday. The course aims to enhance their socialization and obedience skills.

Proteo, a 10-year veteran of search and rescue operations, arrived in Türkiye with a team of 150 people from Mexico on February 6, 2023. Unfortunately, he fell ill and died on February 10, 2023. During his time in Türkiye, Proteo helped rescue teams locate 29 bodies and three survivors.

The dog training course, located in Recep Tayyip Erdoğan National Garden, is equipped with various play and training areas. Veterinarians and trainers from the Metropolitan Municipality Environmental Protection and Control Department provide care for the dogs, including feeding, cleaning, maintenance, and vaccinations. The course has been well-received by dog owners, with 45 dogs receiving free training every Sunday.

Cüneyt Canıdemir, head of the Afforestation and Maintenance Branch of the Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality Parks and Gardens Department, explained the significance of naming the course after Proteo: "Proteo participated in significant operations at the Mexican Ministry of National Defense, serving in many earthquakes and landslides for 10 years. Proteo came to our country during the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş. He helped us reach 29 bodies and three survivors. We found it appropriate to name this place after him."

Why this matters: This dog training course honors the heroic efforts of Proteo, a Mexican rescue dog who died during search and rescue operations, and highlights the importance of training and socializing dogs. This initiative not only provides a valuable service to the community but also raises awareness about the role of rescue dogs in disaster response and recovery.

Dog trainer Burak Safa Bayram noted the progress made in the training sessions: "We have made significant progress in training. People know their dogs better. We have been continuing our training for 14 weeks."

Key Takeaways

• Proteo Dog Training Course in Kayseri, Türkiye honors Mexican rescue dog Proteo.
• Course provides free training to 45 dogs every Sunday, enhancing socialization and obedience skills.
• Proteo helped rescue teams locate 29 bodies and 3 survivors during 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes.
• Veterinarians and trainers provide care, including feeding, cleaning, maintenance, and vaccinations.
• Course raises awareness about the role of rescue dogs in disaster response and recovery.