Whether it's locating confused seniors or searching for individuals trapped after a gas explosion, rescue dogs are constantly called into action. However, before a dog becomes a search and rescue dog, he must undergo extensive training. Additionally, both the dog and its handler must constantly refresh their skills through training.
The city of Bühl has long provided a 4,000 square meter property to the Bühl-Achern district association of the German Red Cross (DRK). This generous contribution has allowed the rescue dog unit, which will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2023, to maintain and care for the grounds. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting ban on gatherings, the members of the association were unable to upkeep the property during this time. As a result, numerous tasks were left undone, making it increasingly challenging to manage.
On Saturday, July 29, 2023, helpers from Baden-Baden arrived to lend a hand. The 16 trainees and dual students from ARKU Maschinenbau in Baden-Baden were joined by training leader Chris Schottmüller and the management team. Together with Michael Piske from Gartenbau Piske and Matthias Kistner from the DRK-Rettungshundestaffel, they got to work. They decluttered the hut, trimmed the hedges at the entrance and on the premises, and collected and disposed of waste and old leaves. After several hours of work, they had brought order back, and the training grounds looked well-maintained once again. A test run by the DRK confirmed that everything was now more welcoming for visitors and dogs. This means that the upcoming 50th anniversary celebration of the rescue dog unit can also take place on the premises.
"We are delighted that we can help with such projects in Bühl, where our new facility is located," said Chris Schottmüller, Training Leader at ARKU Maschinenbau. "Not only are we supporting the rescue dog unit, but this project also brings us together as colleagues in a different way, strengthening our teamwork and camaraderie. And it's simply a lot of fun!"
Such collaborative actions are an integral part of ARKU Maschinenbau's corporate culture. In addition to their social projects, they also form teams for events like the B2-Run in Karlsruhe and local football tournaments. Even the apprentices are involved, as ARKU promotes teamwork and social engagement right from the start, alongside providing industry-specific training. For more information on the various training opportunities at ARKU, you can visit their website at ARKU Training or contact the HR department directly (Tel. 07221-5009-804).
