Dogs with seed-filled backpacks help sisters revive Chile’s forests after devastating wildfires
When we brought the dogs out, they loved running with the backpacks. We filled the packs with seeds, turning the task into a fun activity for them. They covered much more ground than we could on our own.
- 1 month ago
October 13, 2024
Constanza, 42, and Fernanda, 39, are sisters who train their dogs to reforest hills and native forests in the Maule Region. | Photo courtesy of Constanza Torres
MAULE, Chile — One ordinary day in 2017, I worked near Talca, [a city in Chile], when wildfires erupted in the Maule region. When the alarms blared, I learned the devastating fire approached my house. Immediately, I rushed home and remained indoors all week, prioritizing the evacuation of my dogs at a moment’s notice.
For days, we stayed alert as ash fell into our yard while burning leaves and embers landed nearby. Smoke filled the air, reducing visibility as fires broke out in the surrounding areas. At one point, flames neared our home, keeping us anxious about when to flee. We stayed indoors with everything tightly sealed, trying to avoid the overpowering smoke. Once the fire subsided, our dogs sensed our distress and joined us in reforesting the devastated region.
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Sisters launch compassionate campaign to aid injured animals post-fire
Since childhood, my sister Francisca and I loved dogs. Our deep connection with these animals shapes our lives and brings us joy. In 2017, when the fire broke out in the Maule region, we witnessing homes and families vanish. The fire left behind only scattered cans, burnt wood, and injured animals, some of whom escaped. The scene devastated us. So, we quickly put our focus us helping injured animals.
While first aid arrived for the people, we realized the animals had no assistance. We resolved to help them first. My sister and I launched a campaign on Pewos, a website Francisca manages, which offers information and tips for healthier pet food. We gathered supplies, raised funds, and supported animals, including livestock such as sheep, cows, and horses.
To lead a substantial campaign, we not only procured supplies, we also enlisted veterinarians, and coordinated visits to nearby fields. Since neither of us is a veterinarian, we relied on professionals to evaluate and treat the injured animals. Actively, we supplied the necessary materials and assisted with the medicine the veterinarian needed.
Two weeks later, the fire left only ash and a thick layer of charcoal, with small pockets of smoke still rising. The silence wrapped around us, highlighting the absence of any animals. As we expanded our support, we found the beloved hills we often walked completely ruined. Our hearts broke as we saw the hills’ destruction. We cherished those hills including our favorite paths and the trees which offered us shade.
Border collies help reforest land after devastating fires
Taking our dogs into nature to walk, run, and explore enriched their lives as we turned our attention to recovery. This experience deepened our connection to the outdoors and reinforced our commitment to restoring the environment. After the wildfire, Das, our first border collie from Spain, inspired us to launch our reforestation project. At that time, we had three border collies, Das and her two puppies Summer and Olivia, who loved to run. We thought, “What if they could help us?” Utilizing a backpack, we planned to modify them for our dogs to support our reforestation efforts.
Following the catastrophic fires, we walked our dogs as we brainstormed ways to help. Witnessing the deforestation, we began collecting seeds to mitigate its impact. Armed with our dogs and adapted backpacks, we gathered seeds from our yard, which still had several native trees. Then, Francisca and I set out to scatter the seeds, moving forward only a meter at a time. As we collected more native seeds from nearby unburned areas, we crafted seed mixes for the environment. To ensure these mixes could endure drought conditions, we designed them knowing we would not irrigate the hills.
When we brought the dogs out, they loved running with the backpacks. We filled the packs with seeds, turning the task into a fun activity for them. They covered much more ground than we could on our own. Francisca trained them well. The dogs acted intelligently, each going to a designated sector. To motivate them, we offered gifts to them for their efforts before refilling their backpacks with seeds.
Upon their return, the dogs received food packets as a reward. They sat patiently while we refilled their backpacks before sending them out again. They took turns, filling a backpack and then returning for a refill. This training proved highly effective. Prioritizing their safety and happiness, we ensured they avoided hazards like wood and nails on the hills. We kept their well-being at the forefront, ensuring they enjoyed their activities safely.
Reforestation project thrives with energetic, well-trained dogs despite challenges
Not every year of the project proved favorable; however, we remained engaged for several years. Our efforts depended on the amount of rainfall, as we needed sufficient water during the initial winter months. In dry years, like last year, we did not carry out the project but focused on reforestation in other ways, such as donating trees to schools. Fortunately, we ensured a future for these native trees and avoided wasting the seeds. As a result, we discovered small areas where the project continued to be beneficial.
Excitedly, we added two new dogs to our team: Cala and Lemmon, who is currently in training and is Summer’s daughter. Das, our 13-year-old border collie, fills our home with energy, tenderness, and intelligence. She understands everything with just a glance. When Das gave birth, we added Summer to our family. She exhibited a sweet, loving, and playful nature.
Olivia runs fast and brings endless energy, while Lemmon, like her mother, combines speed and intelligence as a great runner. We adopted Cala, who thinks she is a border collie and shows her playful, friendly, and cheerful spirit. The dogs complement each other well, as we take them out in pairs or threes, depending on our plans.
For more than a year, Francisca trained assistance dogs, mastering a crucial process to meet our standards, with Das guiding her throughout. All our dogs follow basic commands, and their intelligence is key. They recognize when to stop, avoiding birds and staying clear of traffic as they follow the paths we direct them to.
Empowering nature: collecting seeds and delivering trees for ecosystem revival
Now, we focus on collecting seeds and preparing alternatives for the project while continuing to deliver trees to the community. With the anticipated rainy season next year, we can proceed with the project in small increments. With natural reforestation beginning in certain areas, we aim to avoid disrupting these ecosystems.
To contribute without causing further damage, we carefully assess the areas needing intervention. Francisca and I perform these assessments, often with Das. However, we are scaling back her activities, as she deserves to retire in style.
We handle everything ourselves, including collecting seeds, fueling the car, and traveling. While we receive help and private donations, the rest comes from us. With our commitment to helping others, we take pleasure in this work. We never see it as a commercial venture; instead, we view it as something we can and want to do.
Tirelessly, we work to ensure the environment thrives, inviting back native birds, hummingbirds, and other creatures. As native lizards and snakes return to this area, they help restore some vegetation and insects as part of the natural chain. Thus, we aim to assist nature and give back to the environment while cherishing our time on the hill with our dogs.
