Say Hello to Yuki, Sierra’s Newest Avalanche Rescue Dog
There’s a new set of paws on patrol at Sierra-at-Tahoe. Meet Yuki, the newest and fluffiest addition to the Sierra Avalanche Dog team!
At just 9 weeks old, this golden retriever pup is already stealing hearts across the mountain. Sweet, curious, and full of energy, Yuki is just starting her journey toward becoming a validated avalanche rescue dog —one belly rub (and training session) at a time.
Her handler is Shannon Maguire, Sierra’s Ski Patrol Director, and no stranger to raising mountain-ready pups. Shannon’s last partner, Hunter, was a golden retriever legend at Sierra, and Yuki is proudly following in his pawprints.
This season, Yuki’s focus will be basic obedience, play-based training, and plenty of snowy adventures. She’ll start scent work and rescue drills next, with a goal of becoming mission ready by the end of her second season.
Yuki joins the rest of the Sierra Avalanche Dog team of Shasta, Bodhi, Dyna, and Echo —all part of
Sierra’s commitment to guest safety and avalanche education
. You might spot them on the mountain, near first aid, or at fun events like our Avalanche Dog Fundraiser, Ski Safety Day, or Subaru WinterFest.
If you see one of the avalanche dogs out and about, be sure to ask their handler before saying hi—they’re working hard (even if they look like they’re just chasing snowballs).
Want to learn more about how our avalanche dogs train, work, and help keep guests safe? Check out this video that takes you behind the scenes of the Sierra Avalanche Dogs program and shows what it takes to become a rescue-ready pup in the mountains.
Welcome to the team, Yuki!