06/07/2026
In memory of Xena💕
Xena came to Deresa through the Woof Project, a rescue organization, when she was 1½ years old. She was a Belgian Malinois who had originally belonged to a family in San Diego that ultimately decided she was more dog than they could handle.
According to Deresa, Xena was the most challenging dog she had ever worked with because of her intense temperament and boundless energy. Yet those same qualities helped make Xena an exceptional working dog. Together, Xena and Deresa earned their FEMA Advanced Disaster Search and Rescue certification within just eight months and went on to recertify three more times. Although they were never deployed on a FEMA mission, Xena responded to several callouts with Ventura County Search and Rescue K9.
Beyond her search-and-rescue work, Xena loved participating in team community events. She especially enjoyed playing tug with the people she met and had a special fondness for children, who were often among her favorite playmates.
Xena's best friend was a Dutch Shepherd named Tazzie. The two loved playing together every day and shared a close bond throughout their lives.
Surrounded by her devoted caregiver, her handler, and her best friends, Xena was deeply loved until the very end. She eventually succumbed to underlying health issues, leaving behind countless memories of her dedication, spirit, and unwavering enthusiasm for life.
Xena's journey—from rescue dog to certified search-and-rescue partner—was a testament to her remarkable heart, determination, and the people who believed in her. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered. ❤️🐾
