07/26/2025
I wanted to take a moment to share a significant and proud moment for the International Police Work Dog Association (IPWDA).
In response to an EMAC (Emergency Management Assistance Compact) request during the recent Texas flooding, IPWDA Master Trainer Matthew Zarrella and IPWDA Trainer Jeremy Pell deployed as part of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s K9 response. Jeremy served as the team leader and carefully built his deployment team—four of the members selected were also certified IPWDA handlers. I would like to take a moment to recognize the outstanding job Jeremy did as the team leader during this deployment. His leadership was steady, focused, and deeply rooted in both experience and compassion. Jeremy built a capable, mission-ready team and led with integrity, clear communication, and unwavering dedication to the task at hand. His ability to stay composed under pressure, make sound decisions, and support both the operational and emotional needs of the team truly set the tone for a successful deployment.
In addition to the deployed team, IPWDA SAR Instructors Becky Saltzman and I (Amy Machinski) provided critical remote support throughout the mission, helping ensure the team on the ground had the resources and guidance they needed.
We are sharing this with the Board not only to highlight the operational impact made by our members, but to recognize what this event represents for IPWDA. It’s a powerful demonstration of our mission in action—our members coming together during a time of crisis and representing this organization with professionalism, expertise, and integrity.
This deployment serves as a real-world example of how IPWDA-certified teams meet and exceed industry standards in search and rescue. It reflects our shared values:
Professionalism – operating with respect and responsibility toward K9s, individuals, and colleagues;
Excellence – ensuring capable, reliable teams that contribute meaningfully to public safety;
Integrity – upholding ethical conduct and honesty in all interactions;
Standards and Safety – contributing to a unified framework for work dog teams while prioritizing the safety and well-being of K9s and handlers.
Please see the attached document for further details about the deployment as well as the ArcGIS Story Map - https://arcg.is/Sa55H1
We hope you’ll share in our pride and take a moment to recognize the dedication and skill of these IPWDA members who served with honor and compassion under challenging circumstances. This is what IPWDA stands for.
With appreciation,
Amy Machinski
IPWDA SAR Instructor
Explore the IDHS K9 Team’s mission and impact during the Kerr County Flood response.
