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Info For Handlers

Search and Rescue, although a volunteer entity in the state of Pennsylvania, is still a commitment to be entered into with eyes wide open. While the bond developed between canine and handler is one of the strongest between dog and man, SAR is not to be misunderstood for a hobby. Hours are spent training these teams to be operational so that when the need for resources arise, they are at the ready to be the best resource to locate lost loved ones. It is important to understand call outs happen at all hours of the day, in all weather conditions and in all types of terrain.

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Becoming a K9 handler for search and rescue is a demanding yet rewarding field of service. ChesCo Search Dogs trains every week (usually Sundays). The goal of trainings is canine focused in efforts to maintain operational status of certified canines and to work toward certifications of those that need it. Training of a canine is an ongoing process that does not end in the field but continues at home with the handler. Achieving certification is dependent on the amount of time and effort put in by the canine team, that is canine AND handler.

In addition to canines, training of the handlers is even more important. In order to be a deployable K9 team lead, the handler must hold a NASAR (National Association of Search and Rescue) Technician II certification. Proficiency in skills such as navigation, map reading, wilderness first aid, scent theory and crime scene preservation to name a few compose the SARTECH II certification. There is some variable financial output in SAR, especially for handlers. The amount of money spent is based largely on the discipline of the canine team and the equipment needed to maintain. However, some of the cost can be offset to certified teams through philanthropic organizations that support working K9 teams.

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