Search and rescue dogs are on the front lines as first responders race to find survivors of the recent mudslides in Montecito, California.

The Los Angeles Times reports that there are 8 search and rescue dogs working with their handlers in the search for victims, with more arriving now.

The dogs were trained by the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation, which rescues shelter dogs and trains them for this lifesaving work.  They are provided to first responders free of charge.  The Foundation is continuing operation even though its own facilities were damaged in the Thomas fire.

You can watch a brief video of one of these brave dogs in action on the KTLA News website HERE.

Image: Mike Eliason/Santa Barbara County Fire Department.