MALIBU, United States, Jan 18, (V7N) — Amid the ruins of luxury homes along Malibu's iconic Pacific coast, search and rescue dogs like Tulla and Bosco are proving vital in the desperate search for victims of the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles.

Tulla, a sandy-colored Labrador retriever, barks furiously next to a burned gas canister—signaling to handlers that something may lie beneath the rubble. Moments later, another dog confirms the scent, suggesting that one of the 15 people still missing might finally be located.

Marco Rodriguez of the Los Angeles County Fire Department called the dogs "critical" to the recovery mission. "Thousands of homes have been destroyed, and these dogs are an integral part of helping us find those who are missing," he told AFP.

Canine Heroes on the Frontlines

For firefighters working grueling 12- to 24-hour shifts, these specially trained dogs are essential. Their keen sense of smell can detect human remains buried deep in debris, dramatically speeding up the search process.

Joshua Davis, a handler from San Francisco, described how his energetic black Labrador, Bosco, thrives in these challenging environments. "They’re used to crawling on rubble. They enjoy it," Davis said. However, safety precautions are necessary. The dogs wear protective boots to shield their paws from sharp glass and nails scattered throughout the wreckage.

Rigorous Training and Dedication

These dogs live and train like any other firefighter. "Bosco eats with us, trains daily, and even knows how to run on a treadmill and climb ladders," Davis shared. Bosco practices weekly in simulated disaster zones to stay sharp, searching for hidden scents planted by trainers.

Interestingly, Bosco wasn’t always destined for this role. Initially trained as a guide dog, Bosco "failed miserably" due to his high energy. Yet, this same energy makes him perfect for search-and-rescue missions. His reward for finding a scent? Playtime with his favorite toy—a piece of fire hose.

Speed and Efficiency in Rescue

The efficiency of search dogs like Bosco is unmatched. "A dog can clear a collapsed building in five minutes, whereas it could take several firefighters 10 to 20 minutes," Davis explained. Though not flawless, these dogs significantly reduce the workload and accelerate recovery efforts.

More Than Just Work

Outside of search operations, Bosco enjoys a bit of fame with a popular Instagram account showcasing his work and lighter moments. In one post this week, Bosco is seen eagerly looking out a car window with the caption: "Ready to work, boss!"

As the Malibu community grapples with loss and devastation, these dedicated dogs and their handlers continue to offer hope, tirelessly searching for answers amid the ashes.