Canada Ships Dog Boots to New York Disaster Site

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TORONTO (Reuters) - A Canadian company that makes padded boots for dogs has sent hundreds of pairs to New York police to help protect their canine unit's paws from splintered glass and debris while they help search for bodies in the remains of the World Trade Center.

But because of delays in air transport and tightened security at the Canada-U.S. border, Bertrand said a police escort was needed to get the latest shipment across on this week.

Muttlucks Inc., based in Toronto, has been shipping the boots since Tuesday in response to a request from the New York Police Department.

"This is standard protection for working dogs ... They really need them urgently down there," said Marianne Bertrand, the firm's owner.

"Those dogs put their lives before the people they're trying to rescue. They're no different from police and firemen. They need protective gear too."

Bertrand said she was not surprised to receive the order. Hundreds of dogs, assisting police and rescue teams, have been working in the dangerous rubble in New York's financial district.

The boots resemble socks but have padded soles to protect the paws and Velcro straps that fit around the ankles.

"They're like running shoes," Bertrand said.

A dog owner herself, Bertrand began manufacturing the boots after she received a set for her basset hound more than seven years ago. Since then, her company has supplied boots for dogs working in many disaster situations, including the aftermath of the Oklahoma City bombing.

"This has turned into a serious business," she said. "Those dogs will work until they drop. We're elated to be able to do something."

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