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Radar the weather dog helps KOTV meteorologists teach children about severe-weather safety.
When Ron Harig, P.M. content director at KOTV The News on 6, suggested that the station get its own weather dog, the staff knew they wanted a rescue pet.
“We wanted to give a dog a home that needed one,” Creative Services Manager Joanna Shelton says.
As a result, Harig, Shelton and dog trainer Susanne Shelton, sister of Joanna, traveled to the Tulsa Animal Shelter to identify potential dogs to fill the weather dog position. Along the way, they made a video of their experience.
After working with seven dogs, Susanne Shelton says one caught her eye, a 12-week-old beagle mix. She says he learned new tricks quickly and would continue performing to get attention.
At that moment she knew this dog had the right personality to be KOTV’s weather dog. Each of the other dogs also found a loving home.
When the time came to pick a name for the dog, KOTV asked Green Country residents to weigh in. Viewers were encouraged to go online to cast their vote for their favorite name or suggest a new name. Submissions included Twister, Storm, Puddles, Tracker and Taco. In the end, Radar was the overwhelming favorite.
Now, Radar travels with chief meteorologist Travis Meyer to weather camps across the area to help children learn about severe weather safety. He has helped Meyer teach more than 9,500 children in his 20 shows.
During the weather camps, Radar’s responsibilities include showing children where and how to hide during a tornado. Meyer will say, “Tornado! Where do you go?” prompting Radar to jump off the top of his storm shelter and race inside to safety.
Radar’s two new tricks are showing children what do in flood situations and when lightning strikes.
In his off time, Radar lives with his dog trainer, Susanne, on a 3-acre lot in Sand Springs. There he has 20 other dogs to run and play with.
Radar also loves his family at The News on 6.
“He wants to visit with everybody (at KOTV),” Shelton says. “He especially remembers those who give him treats.”
Editor’s note: Learn more about Radar at www.newson6.com.
