As Reported on KGO-TV website

The dust, smoke and chemicals contained in those huge billowing clouds following the 9/11 attacks caused massive breathing problems among the rescue workers who responded. But, only now are scientists beginning to look at the long term side-effects our four-legged rescuers may be facing. Now a study is underway to get a look at the effects on dogs.

MRIs used to only be available to humans. Now they're available to pets too. Four dogs have come to Redwood City with handlers from around the U.S. to the Pet Imaging Center as part of a five-year study.

The four search and rescue dogs ranging from 7 to 11-years-old will get their own MRIs to check their health conditions.

Eleven-year-old Misu is the first of four dogs who got an MRI. She and her handler traveled here from Miami. They're one of the K9 search and rescue team who participated in the recovery efforts after the 9/11 attacks.

She was deployed as a first responder to help in Iraq as well, and also after disasters like the Columbia space shuttle explosion.

Unlike the human handlers, the dogs cannot wear protective gear like gas masks. Misu's handler Bill Kidd says the 9/11 work was hard and they had to make a choice. But they say it's worth the risk for the victims they help.

Bill Kidd, Miami-Dade County Fire Dept.: "It's a hard choice. But it is good. I'm relieved we're doing all we can to make sure the health is okay. It's also for myself because we were together. As long as she hadn't had anything yet, hopefully I'm not going to get anything."

There will be four dogs here getting their MRI scans. The scans take a half hour each and so far, all of them have been healthy.

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