Bloodhounds are known for their extraordinary sense of smell. And in 2021, one such heroic dog used its amazing skill to locate a missing six-year-old child.
In a heartwarming turn of events, a missing 6-year-old girl who had been missing for over a month was found safe, all thanks to the incredible abilities of a bloodhound named Fred.
The story, which unfolded in central Tennessee, showcases how extraordinary things can be accomplished when man’s best friend partners with the brave men and women in law enforcement.
The Search and Rescue
Kinzleigh Reeder, the 6-year-old girl, had been missing for over a month when authorities turned to Fred for assistance. Fred, a well-trained bloodhound with a remarkable sense of smell, was able to locate the young girl in an abandoned shed.
According to reports from the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office, Fred tracked Kinzleigh’s father, Nicholas Reeder, by sniffing an item belonging to him and led the officers to the outbuilding behind a home. Despite the door being reinforced from the inside, officers managed to gain entry and discovered Kinzleigh and her father hiding among blankets.
“We made entry into the building and discovered the suspect and child in the back of the shed behind blankets that were hanging from a makeshift clothesline,” Rutherford County Sgt. James Holloway said, according to the Facebook post. “Everyone was prepared to stay on scene until the little girl was safely located and out of harm’s way.”
Conditions and Rescue Efforts
The conditions in which Kinzleigh was found were less than ideal. The small outbuilding had poor ventilation and emitted a strong odor of ammonia. The windows had been boarded with metal, and there was a scarcity of provisions such as food and water.
The father and daughter had been forced to use a five-gallon bucket as a makeshift toilet. Fortunately, once the officers located Kinzleigh, they ensured her immediate safety and apprehended her father on charges of child abuse or neglect.
When Fred approached young Kinzleigh, he gave her a sloppy greeting as only a bloodhound can.
“He licked her face and she gave him a big hug,” Fred’s handler, Deputy Richard Tidwell, said of the moment the dog found the missing girl. “I pulled the chicken reward out of my pocket. He ate [it] and wanted to meet other people as if to say, ‘Look what I’ve done.’”
Bloodhound Hailed a Hero
Fred, the bloodhound responsible for the rescue, has been hailed as a hero by the community. Not only did he use his keen sense of smell to track down the missing girl, but he also provided comfort and reassurance by giving a big ‘ol smooch on her face.
Fred’s dedication to his role as a search and rescue dog was evident as he enthusiastically sought out the missing child and proudly displayed his accomplishment to his handler, Deputy Richard Tidwell. The brave bloodhound was rewarded with chicken and extra pizza crusts for his extraordinary efforts.
Ongoing Care for Kinzleigh
Following her rescue, Kinzleigh is now under the care of officials at the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services. While her ordeal was undoubtedly distressing, her safety has been secured thanks to the combined efforts of the law enforcement agencies involved in the search.
Deputies arrested Kinzleigh’s father on charges of child abuse or neglect. According to WKRN, Mr. Reeder had lost custody of his daughter and had warrants for custodial interference.
Fred’s Previous Success
This isn’t the first time Fred has played a vital role in locating a missing person. In March, he successfully located a 13-year-old runaway boy, marking his first official recovery since joining the sheriff’s department in 2020. Fred’s remarkable search and rescue skills have proven invaluable, and his dedication to his duty continues to inspire admiration and gratitude from both law enforcement and the community.
Through their superior senses and unwavering loyalty, dogs like Fred provide crucial assistance in finding missing people and ensuring their safety. This story highlights the heroic efforts of law enforcement and the tireless commitment of search and rescue dogs like Fred, who make a remarkable difference in the lives of those in need.
Learn more about the amazing Bloodhound.
