If you have not already please read about USAR search dogs.

USAR Search Dog Handlers
USAR Search Dog handlers in New Zealand are all volunteers. They come from all sorts of backgrounds, from firefighters to computer programmers. What they share is basic fitness, the ability to work in a team, the desire to serve the wider community and a dedication to the development of USAR Search Dogs. 

All those involved with USAR are required to undertake some basic rescue training. Once qualified as a USAR Responder they are identified by an ID card called the USAR Orange Card.

• The courses required for this are:
  General Rescue – introductory rescue work
  First Aid
  USAR Awareness – basic work on the rubble pile
  Introductory Co-ordinated Incident Management System (CIMS)

In 2008, the USAR Search Dog Association developed and introduced a National Training Programme (NTP). This helps handlers and dogs achieve certification so the national operational dog target is met. The NTP is based on training groups in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

• The key elements of the NTP are:
  Screening and entry into the programme Ongoing progress checks
  Regular training opportunities for both handler and their dogs.

Is it for you?
Before you consider training a USAR search dog we strongly suggest you ask yourself the following questions.
They are designed to make you aware of the real time and commitment required.

• Skills: Do you have training in, or are you willing to get training in
  First Aid
  Urban Search and Rescue
  General Rescue
  Incident Management
  Confined Space Rescue
• Training: Are you prepared to spend
  6-7 hours/week training your dog?
  1-2 years training before assessment starts?
  time to take part in exercises and other events?
• Team Work: Are you
  prepared to work as part of a team, day or night, wet or fine
  happy to help-out in other roles, as required?

If you answered yes to most of these questions then please speak to us further.

 

Where to from here…
If you are interested in training a USAR Search Dog here are the next steps:
Send an e-mail to searchdogs@usar.govt.nz.
Someone will contact you to arrange a meeting between you and your closest training group.

Attend 1-2 training sessions and/or a introductory evening if there is one scheduled.

Complete the application form which will be given to you by a local coordinator.

If you already have a dog that is two years of age or younger we will arrange for a local senior handler to provide an initial assessment of potential to be trained as a USAR Search Dog. There is no particular breed of dog required, but note that dogs already identified as a dangerous breed will not be considered for training as a search dog.
The National Trainer will then do formal screening over a period of time to recommend entry into the programme.

You can then begin progress checks and arrange for handler screening

If you do not have a dog we will work with you to find what we hope will be a suitable dog- one with the right drives, trainability, socialability and will fit in with you and your family.