Search for Wilson, the Heroic Dog Who Saved Four Children in the Amazon, Persists by Colombian Authorities

Speaking in an interview with The Washington Post, Edgar Fontecha, a 59-year-old canine handler for the Colombian army and Wilson’s trainer, explained that some hunting dogs can easily become lost while obsessively searching. However, Wilson’s exceptional training and instincts have made him a valuable asset in the rescue efforts.

Wilson’s efforts were crucial in locating four young children who had gone missing in the Amazon rainforest after a plane crash. The children, aged 13, 9, 4, and 1, were miraculously found alive after surviving 40 days in the jungle. Tragically, their mother and two others did not survive the crash.

Despite Wilson’s disappearance, the Colombian Special Forces, consisting of over 70 individuals, continue their search operation named Operation Hope, or “Operación Esperanza” in Spanish. Even President Gustavo Petro has expressed his concern over Wilson’s absence.

During a news conference, President Petro mentioned that the children had been accompanied by Wilson at some point during their ordeal. However, Wilson left the children to find his handler, resulting in his own disappearance.

The search for Wilson has been ongoing for two weeks. The team has employed various tactics, including releasing female dogs in heat to attract him and leaving food at strategic locations. They have also placed the handler’s clothes to create a comforting scent for Wilson.

The Colombian army remains committed to finding Wilson, their courageous and skilled canine leader. The search team has utilized innovative techniques, such as combining the scents of the four siblings found near the wreckage to enhance Wilson’s ability to track them. This approach, not previously taught to Wilson, proved effective in locating the children.

Although Wilson is still missing, Fontecha, who has trained dogs for the Colombian army for nearly three decades, believes that Wilson’s advanced skills and instincts will enable him to survive in the challenging jungle environment for an extended period.

Fontecha, who has a deep emotional bond with Wilson, expressed his sadness over the dog’s disappearance. He emphasized the profound impact Wilson has had on their lives and the importance of finding him.