Cody, a Labrador, was a senior member of the Fire and Rescue Department’s K-9 Unit, called Unit Pengesan, and James was his handler. Cody was put down last month after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.

“When I first found out Cody had cancer, I was distraught for days. I still feel sad.

“We went through everything together, through rivers and hills looking for the bodies of deceased victims.

“The family members were always very appreciative of Cody’s efforts in finding the remains of their loved ones so that they could give them a proper burial.

“Cody has contributed so much,” said James, who is now assisting his fellow handlers with their dogs.

Handlers like Andrew Vengitasamy, with his Border Collie, Callie, have been serving in the unit for more than a decade with little publicity.

“Before I got married, Callie was my first wife!” said Andrew, laughing.

“We’ve been through good times and bad,” he said, adding that he loved Callie so much he wished he could bring her home to live out the rest of her days once she completed her service.

The strong bond between handler and dog is not unusual as they work as a team.

Handler Dennis Wan Jau treats his dog, Mansell, just like his son.

Dennis and Mansell have only been partners for two years, but the English Springer Spaniel has given his handler so much to be proud of.

“Mansell is really good at his job,” said Dennis, adding he spent a lot of time playing and talking to Mansell.

The fire brigade’s K9 unit has 43 handlers and 18 dogs. Their headquarters is in Jalan Klang Lama.