"Training the Trusted Canine"

Michelle L. Limoges is one of the founding members of the Search and Rescue Dog Association of Alberta® (SARDAA) situated in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. She has been a dog handler, and has held the position of secretary since the association's inception in 1989.

Michelle is currently a co-trainer with SARDAA; has responsibility for annual Active Team evaluations; and, regularly conducts aptitude assessments on SAR Dog candidates. She has trained and shown her Dobermans in conformation, obedience, tracking, and Schutzhund since 1976, and is currently working her fourth and fifth accredited Dobermans for search. She has participated in dozens of searches during her 20 years with SARDAA; and, prior dogs were accomplished in both lost person search, and land/water human remains detection. Michelle is past-president of the United Doberman Club based in the United States of America.

Alberta Emergency Service Medal Presentation

Michelle Limoges, of the Search & Rescue Dog Association of Alberta® (SARDAA), standing to the left of Chief Boyd, was awarded the Alberta Emergency Service Medal September 30, 2009. This medal is presented, upon application supported by an official agency, to those who have at least 12 years service within the SAR community. Michelle is celebrating 20 years with SARDAA as Secretary and a dog handler. Chief Mike Boyd, Edmonton Police Service, presented the medal on behalf of the Province at a ceremony in Police Headquarters during a regular meeting of the EPS Executive Officers Team. Michelle is honoured to have received this medal, particularly since it was presented by the Edmonton Police Service with whom she has worked on many SAR incidents.