New Zealand Urban Search and Rescue

Search Dog Association

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Introduction to USAR Search Dogs

USAR search dogs are a unique and incredibly valuable resource in the location of people trapped following the collapse of structures eg following earthquakes, tornados, landslides and other natural and man-made disasters. Humans shed up to 40,000 skin cells every minute and it is these tiny particles floating in the air that USAR dogs are trained to locate.

The fast and effective location of trapped victims has a major effect on their chances of rescue and recovery. These amazing animals must be healthy, energetic, agile, high drive dogs who can cope with the stress of being around many other dogs, handlers, rescue workers and the noise and confusion of a rescue site. They must be non-aggressive and possess the ability to work in very difficult conditions.

The dogs are only one part of the team. USAR dog handlers are all volunteers based throughout New Zealand. They are required to undertake basic rescue training to work safely in rescue environment and fit this around the many hours taken training their canine search partners. While hard work, training a USAR dog is very rewarding and provides a great opportunity to work with dog to help the community in their time of need.

The USAR Search Dog Association

The USAR SDA is as an incorporated society formed in 2003 to progress the development of a strong USAR search dog capability for New Zealand.

Our vision is: Sustainable numbers of Search Dogs trained and assessed to national standards and used effectively in USAR operations.