Hug-A-Tree Utterly alone and terrified, every year a number of children tragically die in the wilderness, usually because they simply wander off and become lost. Often, searchers pass close by, but the tiny youngster cannot make themselves heard or worse, they are afraid to answer to a stranger. It is heartbreaking for all involved; parents, friends and searchers. The Hug-A-Tree Foundation was formed in 1981 as a result of the tragic death of a 9-year-old boy during a family campout in San Diego County. The boy was lost on a popular trail and found dead four days later.

For Pits’ Sake goes to local schools, scout troops, children's groups and safety fairs to present the Hug-A-Tree and Survive program that teaches children how to be safe in the wilderness. Our Hug-A-Tree program is a slide show presentation, followed by a short demonstration with canines, survival techniques and discussion that teaches children how NOT to get lost and how to survive in the event they do get lost in the wilderness.

Help us at For Pits’ Sake prevent more children from needlessly losing their lives in the wilderness by scheduling your Hug-A-Tree presentation today.

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Talking to Kids about the Terrorist Attacks and Search & Rescue
by Kristine Crawford
October 2001

Due to recent events, I have found that these presentations are helping our communities' children cope with what's going on in America today. The terrorist attack on the Pentagon and World Trade Center has captured the attention of the nation, and it should. Children, however, have a hard time putting these emotionally charged events into perspective. Heightened security efforts are obvious in airports, courthouses, sports stadiums and arenas, and even schools. Kids notice the increased security. While many adults may welcome the changes and feel that they do increase security, children may see them as constant reminders of danger ahead.

Most of the children have seen the SAR dogs on television and I encourage them to talk about what they saw and ask as many questions as they want. This also enables the teachers and the counselors to detect if a child is having a hard time dealing with what's going on.

What I have found really interesting during these recent discussions about disasters with children is, to them, pit bulls are a sign of strength, power and dogs that don't give up. So when I tell them if they are ever lost or missing that there is a good chance one of my pit bull search dogs will be looking for them they feel reassured.

While there are no easy answers about these kinds of events, children will want an explanation from parents, teachers, and other adults. A complete explanation will not be easy, it may not even be possible, but we must try. We must strive for a balance between helping a child feel safe and acknowledging the existence of violence, evil and danger in the world.

We can do a great deal to help our children understand that while our country has suffered despicable acts of terror, we are a strong people who have come together to make certain that we prevail in the struggle for freedom.

If you have any questions about the Hug-A-Tree program, or would like to schedule a presentation for you group, class, or safety fair please contact us by clicking HERE.