Formed in 2000, SARA is a non-profit charitable organization dedicated to the training and support of search dogs in disaster environments. These dogs are specifically trained to perform in extreme surroundings to find people who are trapped or buried as a result of natural disaster or terrorist acts. These victims cannot be seen or heard, but as proven time and time again they can be located with a properly trained K9! The international community has dubbed them “Sniffer Dogs”.
It takes a dog with the right combination of nerve strength, drive, agility and temperament. Then together with its handler, it takes countless hours of training and thousands of dollars in equipment, not to mention food and vet care, to become a disaster search dog team. SARA assists in this endeavor by providing gear, training and an advance training facility.
View the History of Search Dogs in the United States here.
News
March 16, 2011 On March 11, 2011, at the request of the Japanese government, the U.S. Agency for International Development deployed two Urban Search and Rescue teams to assist in search-and-rescue efforts in Japan after the earthquake and tsunami. California Task Force 2 (CA-TF2) and Virginia Task Force 1 (VA-TF1) were deployed due to their direct agreement with USAID. The teams consist of 70 multi-faceted, cross-trained personnel who serve in six major functional areas: search, rescue, medical, hazmat, logistics and planning. In addition, they are supported by canines that are specially trained and qualified to be able to conduct physical search and heavy-rescue operations in damaged or collapsed reinforced concrete buildings.
Good luck and stay safe!
January 17, 2011 Upcoming training for Disaster HR Teams on May 28 and 29, 2011. For more information see the Upcoming Events page.
June 14, 2010 The Vet care opportunity with Dr Cindy Otto has been moved to July 25, 2010. For more information see the Upcoming Events page.
