Working dogs that serve your security needs.
K9 Protection Dogs in Erie, PA
Imagine this: You and your family are walking downtown enjoying nice spring weather and looking for your favorite ice cream place. The sun is shining, and your small town is peaceful with spring flowers and trees in full bloom. Your children are ahead excited and laughing. Suddenly, you notice a quick movement of a man wearing a hooded shirt and sunglasses towards your daughter. He seems to carry a shiny object in his hand and screaming something strange. You are stunned at first, feeling powerless as you are unarmed and may not reach your daughter in time. But your loyal family guardian is already ready to act - all you must do is let go of the leash. In a second Rocky closes the distance between you and the crazy assailant, he attacks with speed and determination. The assailant does not have time to react to your K9 charging at 30 miles per hour. The assailant was neutralized, and you and your kids are safe!
Situations like these may seem far-fetched to some, but the reality is that we live in a time where our security is never guaranteed - even in relatively safe suburban and rural settings. That's why more and more families are looking for personal protection dogs for sale in Erie, PA. Protection K9s help solidify safety, protect peace of mind, and provide lasting relationships with your family.
The issue, though, is that finding great protection dogs for sale can be difficult, especially if you don't know where to start. If you're in a similar position, or don't trust the providers in your area, working with a company like K9 Technology could be the solution you need.
- Keep Your Family Safe and Secure with a K9 Protection Dog
- Family Protection Dogs for Sale in Erie, PA.
- What is a K9 Protection Dog?
- How We Choose Our Personal Protection Dogs for Sale in Erie, PA
- How to Choose the Best Family Protection Dog for Your Household
- Top 3 Family Protection Dogs for Sale in Erie, PA
- The K9 Technology Difference
- K9 Technology: Safety and Security Epitomized
What is a K9 Protection Dog?
A personal protection dog is a trained protection K9 that will become a member of your family. These amazing dogs are well balanced and calm in your home and on the street, but at the same time be able to defend against any threat on a moment notice and on command. What was once considered a luxury is now increasingly viewed as a practical, mobile security solution for those who cannot afford to take chances.
K9 Tech Security dogs aren't just security tools-they're family members who happen to be trained at the highest level. They provide peace of mind not just through protection, but through presence. They're always with you and your family, always aware, and always ready.
At K9 Tech Security, our dogs are not only house-trained but also exhibit a calm demeanor when you need them to be and can switch to a playful spirit when it's time to have fun. They won't chew up your furniture or dig up your yard.
How We Choose Our Personal Protection Dogs for Sale in Erie, PA
The first requirement for any dog we deem worthy of our protection canine program is that it must be bred to be a working dog.
Working Dogs 101
In the United States, the term "K9" has become the standard way to refer to working dogs. This abbreviation originated from police departments that started using "K9" to describe their police dogs, with K9 simply being a shorthand version of the word "canine," which refers to the family of animals that includes all dogs. As a result, K9 has become a common term for working police dogs.
But what exactly is a working dog? There are several types of working dogs. For instance, dogs that assist with hunting are considered working dogs, as well as those that are trained to pull carts to market. Generally, when we talk about working dogs, we refer to dogs that perform important tasks in police and military settings.
Our Family Protection Dog Selection Process
We select mature dogs aged 1.5 to 2.0 years, ideally with some basic training in working dog sports like KNPV, Schutzhund/IGP, or Mondioring. This allows us to assess their working character, training, health, and suitability for your needs.
After selection, we focus on training the dogs to meet our customers' specific requirements. These dogs must maintain a high level of obedience while also being prepared to respond to potential threats on command. Often, we train them to use a "hold and bark" technique, where the dog barks to warn of a threat when the owner gives a guard command. The dog will only bite if the person attacks or approaches the owner.
Our personal protection dogs can be trained and sold anywhere in the USA. Clients often refer their friends and family members to K9 Technology because:
- We Utilize an Effective Four-Step Selling Process
- Every Do is Selected to Meet Your Unique Needs
- Every Family Protection Dog is Trained with Your Family in Mind
- We Select Dogs from the Best Breeders in the World
- Exclusive Training from Professional Protection Dog Trainers
Family Protection Dogs for Sale in Erie, PA Tailored to Your Needs
While there are certain essential traits that all K9 dogs we select must have, we also take into account the unique needs and preferences of each customer. We start that process by conducting a thorough interview to understand your situation and engage with each adult family member. We then visit your home and property, paying close attention to your living arrangements and specific circumstances. We'll ask you questions such as:
- Do you have children and their ages?
- Do you prefer the dog(s) to live inside or outside the house?
- Do you want a family dog that will spend time with you and your family or a protection dog that would focus on its primary task?
- Do you need a protection dog that you can take with you outside your property to provide protection?
- What are your security concerns, and what are the security risks you seek protection from?
- How large is your property, and what is the local weather?
The Importance of Dog Traits
Dogs, even those of the same breed and from the same litter, can have very different personalities. Some dogs are naturally more family-oriented and exhibit patience around small children, while others may not have that same temperament. Certain dogs are highly energetic and may not be suitable for living indoors with someone who lacks experience in handling working dogs.
Some dogs also possess strong prey and defensive instincts, showcasing a higher degree of aggression that can be valuable for addressing potential intruders. Conversely, there are also dogs that are more balanced and easygoing, yet still fully capable of dealing with your average criminal threat.
Selecting the right personal protection dog for your needs takes many years of experience and knowledge of dog behavior. That's why, at K9 Technology, we've assembled a world-class team for exactly this purpose.
Top 3 Family Protection Dogs for Sale in Erie, PA
At K9 Technology, one of the most common questions we get often revolves around what the best K9 protection dogs are. That's a difficult question to answer because every breed is different, and every family and individual will have different needs and goals with their protection dog. However, generally speaking, working dogs like the following breeds are often the best.
German Shepards
German Shepherds are commonly chosen to work alongside police officers for a good reason. They are courageous animals, displaying both confidence and boldness. Their high intelligence and ability to learn commands quickly make them a popular choice among individuals and families. When they join a household, they tend to have a calm demeanor and are very affectionate. However, don't be fooled; if their home is threatened, they will respond swiftly to protect their loved ones.
Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is a highly energetic breed that possesses the strength and vigor of a large dog, all while maintaining a lighter frame. Similar to Dobermans, Malinois are exceptionally intelligent and alert. Like many protective breeds, they require regular physical activity and mental challenges to truly thrive.
Dutch Shepherds
If you're looking for a versatile and highly intelligent protection dog, the Dutch Shepherd is an outstanding choice. Originally developed in the Netherlands for herding and guarding duties, this breed is known for its incredible work ethic, adaptability, and loyalty. Dutch Shepherds are extremely trainable, making them ideal for both personal and family protection.
The K9 Technology Difference
Investing in one or more K9 protection dogs for sale in Erie, PA, is a significant decision for you and your family. You're not just bringing home a new family member; you're also gaining a crucial ally who can help safeguard your lives. At K9 Technology, we prioritize the selection and seamless integration of this dog into your home, ensuring a smooth transition and a strong bond with your loved ones.
Our Selling Process Explained
Our four-step selling process is very thorough and is tailored to your needs, schedule, and family life. It includes:
Meet - Let's Get to Know Each Other
When our customers reach out, our first priority is to understand their security concerns. We want to know why you're considering a personal protection dog and what experiences led you here. Are you worried about being assaulted and sent to The Residence at Presque Isle Bay near Erie, PA? Are you looking for a loyal companion to protect your family? Do you expect the dog to guard you at home, at work, while traveling, or all of the above?
Next, it's crucial to understand your lifestyle. Are you active? Do you have young children? Are you often on the go, and do you live in an urban, suburban, or rural setting? We also want to know your preferences for the personal protection dog (PPD). While some clients care less about appearance, others have specific ideas about size, coat type, and ear shape. It's important that you and your family feel comfortable with your new .
As we learn about you, we make it a point to be transparent about our philosophy. We aim to present the facts clearly to avoid any unrealistic expectations.
Search - We Find the Perfect Family Protection Dog for You
Once we get comfortable with each other, we can begin the search for a personal protection dog. While there might be one available immediately, this is quite rare. Keep in mind that no company can offer a wide variety of sizes, looks, and training levels. Be wary of vendors claiming otherwise, as those with large inventories often focus on selling what they have rather than what you truly need.
At K9 Technology, we tap into an extensive network of top kennels and trainers in the US and Europe. If we don't have a suitable dog available, we'll reach out within our network to find the right match for you
Train - K9 Technology Trains Your Personal Protection Dog
We typically select dogs aged 1.5 to 3 years with some basic training, ensuring they have the necessary obedience and drive. Each dog, even the best trained, undergoes a thorough evaluation and training period with our staff, which can last from 1 to 5 months. We assess what additional training is needed to meet your specific requirements.
Once our trainers are confident in the protection dog's skills, we place the dog with a staff member for a final evaluation, handling it as you would. When we believe the dog is ready for your home, we proceed to the next essential phase of our process.
Delivery - Enjoy Life with Enhanced Peace of Mind
This training course typically lasts from three days to over a week, depending on your experience and comfort level. You will practice real-life scenarios to learn how to instruct your dog to protect you. Throughout this process, we will spend time in your community and accompany you to ensure you feel comfortable taking on the role of handler with your new dog.
Remember, you are not just getting a pet; you are welcoming a trained working dog into your home. We will make sure you understand the basics of handling a working dog, including issuing commands and managing challenging situations.
For those with dog handling experience, we offer less guidance, while beginners receive the support they need to feel confident. We provide essential supplies, including leashes, collars, crates, and enough food and supplements for the first few weeks. We also assist you in finding local veterinarians and health professionals to keep your dog healthy
We visit the homes of all our customers to ensure everything is ready for their new family member. This visit may take place before introducing the dog or be combined with the introduction itself, depending on your preferences.
K9 Technology: Safety and Security Epitomized
At K9 Technology, your safety is our top priority. That's why we are committed to offering our dogs at the most affordable prices-because everyone deserves protection. We take pride in tailoring each dog to meet the unique needs and lifestyles of our clients, ensuring a perfect match every time.
If you're ready to protect your family, your assets, and your peace of mind, we're ready to find a family protection dog you'll love. Contact us today to get started.
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Latest News Near Me Erie, PA
Windows down, air on: How to keep your pets safe in vehicles this summer
Ammiela Agayevhttps://www.goerie.com/story/lifestyle/pets/2025/07/06/hot-car-pet-safety-erie-county-pa/84445873007/
The summer weather is coming in hot this season and it’s important to remember the safety of all our loved ones during this time, including our four-legged friends.Every year, dozens of pets die or receive heat-related injuries from being left or forgotten in sweltering hot vehicles during summer months, ...
The summer weather is coming in hot this season and it’s important to remember the safety of all our loved ones during this time, including our four-legged friends.
Every year, dozens of pets die or receive heat-related injuries from being left or forgotten in sweltering hot vehicles during summer months, according to PETA.
Animal safety is especially important during the hotter seasons because they do not cool down the way we do as humans. Dogs and cats pant, rather than sweat, to cool themselves off, meaning their organ systems can get overwhelmed very quickly according to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
“Cats and dogs are not able to perspire like humans are,” said Brian Carroll, community outreach manager for the Erie Humane Society.
“In order for them to cool down they have to be able to have water or be able to pant and get to cooler air.”
Additionally, heat inside the vehicle can rise much faster in temperature and will be significantly hotter than outside of the vehicle. In fact, vehicles can become 20 degrees hotter in just a few minutes.
“Even if you run in the store for 10 minutes, the temperature inside your vehicle can raise rapidly and be over 100 degrees in no time — even if it’s 65 to 70 degrees and sunny,” says Carroll. “The warmer it gets the quicker that it heats up.”
Millcreek Township Animal Enforcement Officer William Sandstrom says the department gets on average about three to five calls a week regarding animals left behind in vehicles during the summer months.
What is the "Hot Car Bill" and how does it protect animals?
In the state of Pennsylvania, the Motor Vehicle Extreme Heat Protection Act, also known as, the “Hot Car Bill,” signed into effect by Gov. Tom Wolf in 2018, states that law enforcement officers and other public safety professionals have the authority to immediately remove a dog or cat from a vehicle if they have a reasonable belief the animal is in imminent danger.
With the use of a digital laser thermometer, Officer Sandstrom is able to take a reading of the temperature of the inside of the vehicle to assess the imminence of the situation for the animals inside. Always recorded on a body camera, this may become relevant if the situation makes it to court.
The "Hot Car Bill" does not necessarily give citizens the authority to immediately enter in these scenarios. Both public safety officials and bystanders have a set of procedures they must follow before considering entering the vehicle.
“You have to make a good faith effort to locate the owner of said animal in the hot car,” said Sandstrom.
Only law enforcement officers and public safety officials are explicitly covered under this act, legally allowing them to enter the vehicle and assist any animal in distress protecting them from any liability.
The officer or public safety official must also leave behind a note on or in the motor vehicle stating why the entry was made, the name of the person and their employer, a telephone number and where the owner can go to pick up their pet, if possible.
What can you do to help animals in distress?
If you see an animal in a hot car showing signs of distress or a possible heat-related injury, first, take note of the make and model of the vehicle, then enter any nearby businesses to locate the owner. If you are unable to find the owner of the vehicle, contact the local authorities or call 911.
Although it is best to wait for emergency personnel, in dire situations, after taking the proper precautions, bystanders may take the necessary steps to remove the dog or cat from the vehicle, following the same procedure as an officer or public safety official, leaving a note with the proper information. Immediately get the animal to a cool place, with access to water and take it to a nearby vet for further direction.
Officer Sandstrom warns about entering vehicles as a bystander, stating some animals may become violent with unknown persons entering the vehicle.
“You could have an aggressive animal inside that vehicle, so you have to have the upmost caution,” Sandstrom warns.
Leave your pet at home or take the proper precautions
Pet owners who are accused and found guilty of intentional negligence may be sentenced to imprisonment, have to pay a hefty fine or both, according to Pa. state law.
Both animal and public safety professionals recommend leaving your animals at home, especially if they do not have to come along with you on your outing.
“We always ask that if you can leave your animal at home, it is best to leave them at home,” Carroll said.
When you must bring along your four-legged friend, make sure to park in a shady area, crack a window, keep the car running with the air conditioning on, and make sure that your pet has access to water while you are briefly away from your vehicle.
The 19 new Erie, Pa. restaurants we've seen open in 2025
Jennie Geislerhttps://www.goerie.com/story/entertainment/dining/2025/07/03/new-restaurants-opened-first-half-2025-erie-pa/84374341007/
Erie's restaurant writer feels a bit like she just finished a double shift as a server on Mother's Day. Restaurants in this region are popping up and moving and renovating and closing and reopening all over the place. It's like we've been playing Whac-A-Mole for six months.But all this activity sure is good news for diners. Choices have exploded as the industry finally sheds the shackles of COVID and folks are eating out a...
Erie's restaurant writer feels a bit like she just finished a double shift as a server on Mother's Day. Restaurants in this region are popping up and moving and renovating and closing and reopening all over the place. It's like we've been playing Whac-A-Mole for six months.
But all this activity sure is good news for diners. Choices have exploded as the industry finally sheds the shackles of COVID and folks are eating out as much as ever. Here's what's happened on Erie's dining scene just since the New Year. And this is not, or could never be, a complete list. It's just the biggest stories we managed to get to. If we missed someone, please let us know by dropping an email to [email protected].
Blue Pike Grille
The Blue Pike Grille just opened at the North East Marina, 11950 East Lake Road in North East. Owner Kevin Daughrity with his wife, Kim, also have a barbecue place, Sensory Smokehouse; Quincy Cellars winery and event venue; Grace & Abe's Brewpub; and a grape farm named Irish Acres all in New York state.
Read the full story here.
Lavery Brewing Co.
Lavery Brewing Co. bought music venue Basement Transmissions instead of building a new place at 145 W. 11th St.
Read the full story here.
Toast
Dawn Van Scoter, owner of Lawrence Park Dinor, opened a new cafe in North East called Toast, at 10651 Main Road.
Read the full story here.
Born & Braised
Born & Braised, owned by former Cork 1794 executive chef, opened May 22, at 802 W. 18th St. in the former Hector's.
Read the full story here.
Benny's Paninis
Puerto Rican restaurant, Benny's Panini Sandwiches, formerly in the Sacred Heart Ushers Club, re-opened in March at 262 W. Eighth St.
Read the full story here.
Brewerie at Union Station
Brewerie at Union Station, which is coming up on its 20th birthday in 2026, became the only brewery solely owned by a woman on the Lake Erie Ale Trail when Jessica Warren purchased it from Chris Siriani in April.
Read the full story here.
Crumbl
Erie's franchise of cookie company Crumbl, 6839 Peach St., opened May 2.
Read the full story here.
Enrique's Southeast Mexico
Enrique's Southeast Mexico, originally of West 18th and Liberty streets, was destroyed by fire Feb. 20, 2024. For a while, they served lunch out of the Que Abides Kitchen, at 6990 West Lake Road in Fairview. In May, Enriques reopened in the Flagship City Food Hall, 22 N. Park Row.
Read the full story here.
Triple D's Tasty Grill
In April, Triple D's moved from the Flagship City Food Hall to 1301 Parade St., which was the former Red Hot, where George and Helen Katsadas served Greek food before retiring this spring.
Read the full story here.
Taste of Love
Former Flagship City Food Hall purveyor Tasha Tyes opened Taste of Love restaurant at 848 E. Fifth St. in April.
Read the full story here.
Two45 Waterfront Grille
The restaurant inside the Sheraton Erie Bayfront hotel, called the Bayfront Grille for 16 years, was reimagined in 2024, opening April 5 of that year. Two45 celebrated its first anniversary in April 2025.
Read the full story here.
Give a Crepe
Stephani Klassen, owner of Give A Crepe La CrepErie, recently opened a new location that offers dine-in service at 1909 Chestnut St.
Read the full story here.
Cheeserie
Cheeserie went from food truck to the Flagship City Food Hall and two brick-and-mortar locations (the second on the way at the Millcreek Mall) in the span of four years.
Read the full story here.
Dominick's
Landmark Erie restaurant Dominick's Diner, 123 E. 12th St., has a buyer after three years on the market. The new owner has not announced the plans for the space.
Read the full story here.
Passalinqua's Pizzeria
Much beloved Passalinqua's Pizzeria, formerly of 2319 W. 38th St., moved across the city to 3515 McClelland Ave.
Read the full story here.
Herb & Honey Bakery
Herb & Honey Bakery, run by Jessica Schultz, started in November 2020 in a 200-square-foot corner of Urbaniak's, 310 E. 24th St. Now she's at 516 Cherry St.
Read the full story here.
Oba Sushi
Oba Sushi is a new Japanese restaurant in downtown Erie serves sushi and much, much more. It opened Jan. 29 at 516 State St. next to the Flagship City Food Hall.
Read the full story here.
A. Francisco's
A. Francisco's is a new restaurant at 1201 State St. that offers gourmet pizzas, Italian-style tapas and great wine.
Read the full story here.
Vintage Tilted Table
New restaurant at 1301 E. Grandview Blvd., in Erie, owned by the former owners of Sticks and Bricks, now serve breakfast through dinner Fridays through Sundays, and dinner on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Read the full story here.
Coming soon
Serafini's Trattoria
Amanda Serafini, great-granddaughter of the woman who started the restaurant at 2642 W. 12th St., is planning a new restaurant, Serafini's Trattoria, at 417 State St. this summer.
Read the full story here.
Eagle of Waterford (formerly Sugar & Spice)
The (formerly) Eagle Hotel, a 200-year-old landmark at 32 High St. in Waterford, spent the last 28 years as the Sugar & Spice restaurant, which closed in September. The Eagle of Waterford is expected to open soon in that space.
Read the full story here.
The Buzz at Copperleaf
The Cakery at Copperleaf, a second location of The Cakery in Fairview, closed in April. The space will soon reopen as The Buzz at Copperleaf Cafe, at 2900 Copperleaf Drive, a second location of a Union City Cafe called The Buzz of UC, 64 N. Main St.
Read the full story here.
Contact Jennie Geisler at[email protected]. Find her weekly newsletter athttps://profile.goerie.com/newsletters/erielicious/.
Dozens March in Honor of Marchello Woodard
Elspeth Miznerhttps://www.erienewsnow.com/story/52902099/dozens-march-in-honor-of-marchello-woodard
A second march and rally was held on Saturday following the death of Marchello Woodard on Wednesday night.Jerry Roberts, a cousin of Woodard said, "It's heartbreaking and shocking because you hear about these things all the time on national news. We didn't expect this to happen in our own backyard, let alone someone to close to our heart."Family, friends, community, and faith leaders marching in the name of Woodard.Malcom Pullium, one of the organizers said, "Erie is not Chicago, it's not New York City, it...
A second march and rally was held on Saturday following the death of Marchello Woodard on Wednesday night.
Jerry Roberts, a cousin of Woodard said, "It's heartbreaking and shocking because you hear about these things all the time on national news. We didn't expect this to happen in our own backyard, let alone someone to close to our heart."
Family, friends, community, and faith leaders marching in the name of Woodard.
Malcom Pullium, one of the organizers said, "Erie is not Chicago, it's not New York City, it's not Los Angeles, this is something fresh. We want answers and more importantly we want justice. We want to make sure Chello's name is still alive and running and we are here to not let people tarnish his name."
Family members led the march as community leaders and local law enforcement walked in solidarity. Sarah Bridgette, the event coordinator said, "It means a lot to actually march alongside them and to have them here marching with us for that purpose."
Dozens of people made the march from 18th and Peach Streets to 18th and Holland Streets. They continued to chant, "Justice for Chello" time and time again to get their message across.
Organizers wanted the march to remain peaceful and productive. "He can now speak through us. Us having this positive organizations, we just had a rally on 21st and Parade. That rally was great. There was no violence or negativity as long as we continue to do things like that, we are going in the right direction", said Roberts.
Following the march, community leaders spoke about the need for transparency and change in honor of Woodard. "It could be anybody's child it doesn't matter if you re black or white. Of course, he was African American, but this could have been anybody's child. So, of course we want people to come out and support us for this. This is something that can't get swept under the rug . This is bigger than me, this is bigger than you, this is bigger than this community", said Pullium.
Organizers reiterating that they just want answers, transparency, and peace and they have ideas on different things they want to do in the future to get their message across.
City of Erie Releases Reminder for Lights Over Lake Erie Fireworks Show July 3
erienewsnow.comhttps://www.erienewsnow.com/story/52896643/city-of-erie-releases-reminder-for-lights-over-lake-erie-fireworks-show-july-3
The City of Erie is reminding residents and visitors of the final logistics ahead of the Lights Over Lake Erie fireworks celebration on Thursday, July 3 at 10 PM, launched from the Bicentennial Tower on Dobbins Landing.The free community event, co-presented by the Erie-Northwest Pennsylvania Port Authority and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, will offer multiple prime viewing locations:Dobbins Landing (excluding the Bicentennial Tower itself, which will be closed July 3)The Bluffs along East and West Front Streets, inclu...
The City of Erie is reminding residents and visitors of the final logistics ahead of the Lights Over Lake Erie fireworks celebration on Thursday, July 3 at 10 PM, launched from the Bicentennial Tower on Dobbins Landing.
The free community event, co-presented by the Erie-Northwest Pennsylvania Port Authority and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, will offer multiple prime viewing locations:
Dobbins Landing (excluding the Bicentennial Tower itself, which will be closed July 3)
The Bluffs along East and West Front Streets, including Bayview Park
Presque Isle State Park, especially the area near the West and East piers to Perry Monument
Boats in the bay, within the boundaries of a 400-foot safety zone enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard
Any location with a view of the Bicentennial Tower
Parking & Shuttle Details:Due to expected crowds and road closures, the City urges attendees to avoid parking at Dobbins Landing. Instead, park downtown south of the Bayfront Parkway and walk or take a free EMTA shuttle.
Free public garage parking is available at:
712 Peach St. (Seventh & Peach)
140 W. Ninth St. (Eighth & Peach)
24 E. Eighth St. (Eighth & French)
No parking will be permitted in the UPMC Hamot ramp or Sheraton ramp (except for hotel guests and employees). The Bicentennial Tower will reopen on July 4 from 10 AM to 9 PM.
EMTA shuttle service will operate from 8 PM to midnight, looping between:
East Perry Square (French St.)
West Perry Square (Peach St.)
Intermodal Center (208 E. Bayfront Pkwy)
Lincoln Park-n-Ride
Liberty Park-n-Ride
State Street will remain open but may be limited north of East Front Street depending on congestion.
More information and updates are available at lightsoverlakeerie.com and on the City of Erie’s social media channels.
Unearthing Erie's Ancient Giant, and New Mascot: The Story of the Moon Mammoth
erienewsnow.comhttps://www.erienewsnow.com/story/52889415/unearthing-eries-ancient-giant-and-new-mascot-the-story-of-the-moon-mammoth
What began as a routine scuba dive turned into a historic moment for northwestern Pennsylvania.In the summer of 1991, Lake Pleasant, a small glacial lake in Erie County, became the site of one of the region’s most remarkable paleontological discoveries.Local resident George Moon was diving in Lake Pleasant when he surfaced with a massive, fossilized bone nearly three feet long.Unsure of its origin, Moon reached out to Gannon University anthropologist M. Jude Kirkpatrick.The verdict: it was a woolly mammoth s...
What began as a routine scuba dive turned into a historic moment for northwestern Pennsylvania.
In the summer of 1991, Lake Pleasant, a small glacial lake in Erie County, became the site of one of the region’s most remarkable paleontological discoveries.
Local resident George Moon was diving in Lake Pleasant when he surfaced with a massive, fossilized bone nearly three feet long.
Unsure of its origin, Moon reached out to Gannon University anthropologist M. Jude Kirkpatrick.
The verdict: it was a woolly mammoth shoulder blade.
That single discovery sparked further dives, many of them supported by volunteers, which eventually uncovered approximately 80 percent of a woolly mammoth skeleton, including both tusks.
The specimen became known as the "Moon Mammoth" in honor of its finder.
It remains one of the most complete mammoth skeletons ever found in the Great Lakes region and now resides at the State Museum of Pennsylvania in Harrisburg.
Woolly mammoths roamed the region during the Pleistocene Epoch, roughly 9,000 to 13,000 years ago. The Lake Pleasant mammoth find offers direct evidence that these Ice Age giants once walked what is now northwestern Pennsylvania.
Despite the importance of the discovery, the Moon Mammoth story faded into local obscurity.
Few residents knew of it, and even the SeaWolves themselves were unaware of the connection, until it was rediscovered by researchers working with HBO's "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver."
And here we are now, complete with purple uniforms, a moon themed logo, and a new mascot, the rebrand turns a little known chapter of Erie history into a community celebration.
From lakebed, to museum, to minor league baseball mascot, the mammoth's journey is one of the longest ones in history.
Note: The rebranding of the Erie Seawolves to the Moon Mammoths is not permanent, it is a temporary alternate identity.
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