Hundreds of tips are revealed to help handlers train the Search and Rescue dog. This instructional guide describes the skills needed to lay a solid foundation for successfully training the SAR dog. The reader will examine disciplines such as Wilderness Air Scent, Human Remains Detection (both land and water), First Responder Dogs, Disaster, and Trailing dogs. Learn the skills needed to prepare physically, mentally, and intellectually for SAR operations. Enjoy meeting REAL SAR dogs in over 50 photos. Discover the industry standard for documentation including training logs, evaluations, and certifications. Sample forms for each are included. Explore Sympathetic Alerts, Human Response Alerts and handler Cues to understand why dogs behave as they do. Gain a basic knowledge of Scent Theory and learn how it impacts dog performance. Ethics and professionalism are stressed as SAR dog handlers from across the nation reveal their wisdom through TIPS and BEST PRACTICES.

Training a Search and Rescue Dog for Wilderness Air Scent Detection Training a Search and Rescue Dog is a simple, easy to understand step-by-step instructional manual to teach dogs to find live people. It provides a planned curriculum to incorporate a re-find in a wilderness air scent training program first, and then goes on to allow the handler to add a human remains detection component should they desire to cross-train their dog. The program allows for individual differences in dog training methods and reward systems allowing the handler and trainer to custom design the program which best suits their breed, environment, and needs. Also included are related forms such as search training logs, search reports, donation forms, and how to collect an uncontaminated scent article. These lessons are designed for the dog that has already had some general training in basic obedience, agility, and socialization. For dogs without these basic skills, the author has written a book titled, Building a Basic Foundation for Search and Rescue Dog Training. Training a Search and Rescue Dog is an excellent follow up and training regime following the Basics book which lays the appropriate groundwork in order to train a fully functional, certified, and able working dog.

All America is thrilled by Search and Rescue missions, especially when the well-trained dogs are brought in to save victims of earthquakes, hurricanes and man-made disasters. We watch with fascination and horror as these tales unfold across our TV sets. This is one of the few comprehensive books on the training of SAR dogs. It is a complete approach to training for this type of dog.

Quick response to natural and man-made disasters can mean the difference between life and death for trapped victims. This is a step-by-step guide to training dogs to the FEMA level for this important work.

Finally there is a manual to describe the procedures and basic steps to start a search and rescue team. It explains how to create a 501 (c) 3 tax exempt organization, and includes examples of Bylaws, Articles of Incorporation, canine standards, and general team operating procedures. It contains a comprehensive listing of SAR organizations which offer national search and canine certifications. It describes classes required by the Department of Homeland Security and provides information on how to find these classes. This book guides the new and the experienced team as they design, review or update their team policies and procedures to meet industry standard. It includes examples of actual documents used by successful teams and describes recruitment and applicant interview techniques, as well as, new member protocols. It lists examples of fundraising activities, and describes membership responsibilities, including mentorship. In addition, it outlines ethical practices for SAR teams (including protocols for videos, photographs, and training requirements) and describes how to manage and maintain team and individual documentation. It includes a primer for media contact and public relations, and gives a broad overview of how successful teams operate in the community and in the field. It includes suggested and required equipment, a reading resource list, and summaries of common search and rescue classes. It provides a comprehensive overview of how to start and manage a reputable and successful team stressing training and ethics. This administrative manual is valuable and applicable to all team members, especially team leaders. A must have on the SAR bookshelf!

In "Search and Rescue Dogs: Traning Methods," the ARDA teaches everyone what it takes to make a true canine hero. With emphasis on handler and unit training, the principles of obedience as well as handler readiness and equipment are explored. Of particular value is the detailed information on conditioning and first aid for search dogs. The chapters on organizing and carrying out a search will be of great interest to anyone who may wonder how a dog's mind works and to what extent it can be trained. "Search and Rescue Dogs," in the authoritative voice of ARDA, explores the ultimate experience of the interdependence of Man and Dog.

Finally there is a SAR Canine Training Log and Journal to maintain all of the needed documentation about the search and rescue dog and handler. This log allows the handler to identifying goals and objectives for dog training and record those sessions. The Log coordinates a full years worth of weekly training, including 52 blank training logs. The SAR Canine Training Log and Journal is a simple and organized method to set and track training goals, objectives, scenario based trainings, and certifications of the handler and the search dog. It provides a place to record seminars and workshops and specialty events attended. Record search and rescue missions, contacts, and general memories as you document the activities of the Air Scent, Human Remains Detection (both land and water), and Trailing dog. There is plenty of space to document general obedience and agility training in the concise and structured formats. A must have for all SAR dog handlers.