Mammoth Patrol Dogs
Meet Our Paws on Patrol
Our 4-legged patrollers are not only cute and fluffy, but they are also highly trained to help search for people in the event of an avalanche. They are crucial members of our safety team and a big part of the Mammoth family.
Avalanche search and rescue dogs have been an integral part of Mammoth Mountain’s safety team since 2004. Operating through the non-profit Eastside K-9 in partnership with Mammoth Mountain, these highly trained dogs play a vital role in responding to inbounds avalanches. Many are also certified for out-of-bounds search and rescue, assisting efforts across the Eastern Sierra. Training takes place primarily at Mammoth Mountain, where the dogs work alongside their handlers—full-time ski patrollers. Teams also participate in statewide training with the Placer County Sheriff's Department, and advanced courses with WBR, C-RAD and CARDA, honing their skills across the western U.S. and Canada.
The Pack
Duke
DOB: 2014
Began Duty: Winter 14/15
Human: Nicole Deaver
Favorite Activity: Playing catch in Mammoth's Shady Rest Park.
Fun Fact: Duke has serious ups. He can jump about 5 feet high.
Luna
DOB: 2014
Began Duty: Winter 17/18
Human: Kyle Williams
Favorite Activity: Swimming and playing in the water (Just like her dog dad).
Fun Fact: Luna is the daughter of Atlas.
Ritter
DOB: March 5, 2021
Began Duty: Winter 20/21
Human: Shawn Wilson
Favorite Activity: Swimming and wrestling with my human.
Fun Fact: Ritter has a water-repellent coat and loves swimming but hates baths.
Bodie
DOB: April 27, 2023
Began Duty: Winter 23/24
Human: Beth Warner
Favorite Activity: Swimming and running next to his handler while she skis.
Fun Fact: Bodie likes to throw his toys for fun. It results in many tipped-over drinks indoors and laughs out in the snow. He also has the same birthday as Chief but 15 years later!
Mojo
DOB: March 2, 2024
Began Duty: Winter 24/25
Human: Tyler Fugett
Favorite Activity: Still figuring that out, she's a baaaaby.
Fun Fact: Mojo's full name is Mojo Risin.
When the dogs are on the mountain, they are working. Whether the dogs are getting off the lift, skiing with their handler, running a search drill, or walking around the base, please be respectful. Yelling the dog's name, barking, or distracting the dog on the slopes or from a chair lift is inappropriate. If you see a dog and want to ask the handler if you can say hello, please take off your skis or snowboard before you approach. The edge of a ski or board can cut a dog so severely that it can end their career.
Support the Avalanche Rescue Dog Program
The avalanche rescue dogs at Mammoth are part of Eastside K-9, a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to supporting their training, care, and ongoing development. There are several ways you can help:
Shop for a Cause: Pick up an Eastside K-9 t-shirt at the base lodge ski patrol rooms or the top patrol station. You can also browse a wider selection of t-shirts, sweatshirts, and headwear through Eastside K-9’s online store.
Take Home a Furry Friend: Visit one of Mammoth’s retail stores to purchase a plush avalanche dog, with a portion of every sale directly benefiting Eastside K-9.
Donate Directly: Support the dogs with a direct donation through Eastside K-9’s website
Your support helps keep these incredible dogs trained and prepared for rescue—thank you for being part of the mission!