SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. – Spokane County is home to the only arson dog in Washington, and her handler, Jared Harms, is dedicated to his unique partner. Chardonnay, the arson dog, works with Jared in Spokane County Fire District 4.
Jared and Chardonnay live together, allowing them to train using items from their home. Chardonnay is a food reward dog, receiving food when she identifies liquids that could start a fire. Jared explained, “She goes with me everywhere I go. I don’t plan many trips without her.”
As one of only 150 arson dogs in North America, Chardonnay’s nearest counterparts are in Portland and Salt Lake City. This means Jared and Chardonnay are often called for suspicious fires at all hours. “It’s really challenging to set up for someone to care for her in my absence,” Jared stated.
Chardonnay requires frequent baths, getting washed not just once a day but at least once per scene. Jared is the only certified handler for Chardonnay, so she accompanies him almost everywhere, including grocery shopping.
Jared’s bond with Chardonnay is strong, and he plans to keep her after she retires. The dedication between the two ensures that Spokane County benefits from their specialized skills in fire investigation.
