Welcome
Meet The Team
Training Equipment
Interested In Joining?
FAQ
Internet Links
Slide show Flash
e-mail me

Frequently Asked Questions

How does someone get started in Search and Rescue / SCEMK9 ?

Do a lot of reading about the subject and make sure this is a commitment you want to undertake. It takes a great deal of time and energy. If you are interested in joining SCEMK9 specifically, please refer to the information on this site

Back to Top


How do the dogs find people?

The dog’s nose is several thousands of times more sensitive than a human’s. An air scenting dog is trained to use the air currents and wind to find human scent. People shed thousands of skin cells per minute (rafts) and this is the odor believed the dog is smelling, trained to find and is rewarded for. The dog uses its natural hunting ability and instinct to locate the lost subject. We use positive reinforcement in training.

Back to Top


Where do you train?

Buildings, open fields, rubble piles, urban and residential settings. The team trains at all hours, in varied situations and places, and in all weather conditions. Teams must be familiar with many varied situations and training locations. Searches may occur at any time, anyplace. We are always looking for new and interesting places to train at. If you have any locations that our team may use from time to time, please contact us

Back to Top


How long does it take to train a dog?

Depending on the dog’s age during basic training, and the specialty it is working in, approximately one to two years. This varies but is a close estimate. It is very time consuming, not only for dog training, but also all the skills that are required of the handler. We also participate in special events, and demonstrations, which is additional time. Our Team trains one to two times a week as a group and the handler is expected to train on his own time as well. The learning capability of the dog can be related to the time spent with him.

Back to Top


How much does it cost?

The team is a volunteer group and does not charge anyone for its services. The individual handler provides all their own equipment, uniforms, and training aids. Costs can be extensive for care and training of the animal, equipment for the dog and handler, vehicle maintenance and mileage. There are no "monthly dues", etc. As a general guideline our handlers can spend a few hundred to a few thousand dollars each year.

Back to Top


Is Search and Rescue dangerous?

It can be. This depends on what type of searching the team is doing and what types of hazards are in the area. Disaster Search would be considered our most dangerous type of search. If dog and handler are properly trained, your risk of injury is reduced, but the possibility is always present.

Back to Top


What breeds are the best to use?

Our Team uses a variety of different breeds. Breeds used by the SAR community with great success are Bloodhounds, Newfoundlands, Labrador Retrievers, German and Australian Shepherds, Rottweilers, Border Collies, Boxers, Dobermans, Golden Retrievers, Malinois, Tervuren, Australian Cattle Dogs, Schnauzers, Rat Terriers, and Poodles and mixed breeds ! As a general rule, most sporting, working, and herding breeds are used. The temperament of the animal is more important than the breed, but the inherent traits in a particular breed of dog are helpful.

Back to Top


Could my dog do Search and Rescue?

The most important trait in a SAR dog is temperament. Dogs should be willing to please the handler, have a high play or prey drive, and be friendly to both people, animals, and other dogs. They should be calm in stressful and changing situations. They should also be agile, adaptable, and not fearful of loud noises. Our Team officers will help you assess if your dog is suitable for SAR. Not every dog who has these qualities is suited for SAR and not all dogs should be included in a training program.

Back to Top


Do you search for drugs or bombs?

No. We do not look for drugs or contraband, nor do we find bombs or investigate the possibility of arson in fires. We only search for lost or missing persons.

Back to Top


Who can request SCEM K-9 Team?

Only Law Enforcement, Fire/Rescue, Sheriff’s Office personnel, Emergency Management Agency, or a similar Public Service Agency may call out the team. The team will not self-deploy and will not respond at the request of an individual that is not affiliated with one of the above agencies. Contact your local Law Enforcement Agency or Fire/Rescue Service if you need our assistance. If we do not have personnel that are available to help you, we will call the next available resource. We do not charge anyone for our services.

Back to Top


How do I learn more about SCEM K-9 Team?

Contact our Team Chief for more information at Chief@scemk9.org

Back to Top