The purpose of Sandia Search Dogs is to alleviate human suffering and preserve human life by assisting the New Mexico State Police in locating lost persons. This shall be accomplished by using qualified mission-ready search dogs, and other resources that are available to us for whom we are qualified. Above all, we will strive to perform this duty with proper conduct and professionalism, and maintain respect for the subject and their family.
Team Philosophy
Members of Sandia Search Dogs should hold the mission statement to the forefront of their philosophy toward search activities. They must maintain a high standard for their dogs and ready their canine partner to be as effective as possible on a mission. All members must also strive to be an effective field support resource both as an individual or as a team unit, becoming competent and well-rounded in a multitude of search and rescue related skills. This is only achieved by additional training in non-dog related skills which includes, but are not limited to, survival techniques, wilderness first aid, search techniques, radio communications, and map and compass skills. Effectiveness in the field is dependent upon both the dog and the handler, plus the field support member being well trained.
Members of Sandia Search Dogs should hold a high priority to search activities. Only their job, family, and school should interfere with their commitment to serve. Members must be reasonably available to respond on search missions and training.
Members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner any time they are representing themselves to be part of Sandia Search Dogs, or in any situation where it is known they are a member. Professionalism is particularly important on missions because dog teams are underutilized as a resource.
This organization is a team, and as such, the members must work together and support each other. Due to its nature, search dog training cannot be done alone. Members are expected to support each other during training and on missions. This includes attending missions as field support for a dog handler and helping others during training, regardless of their level of proficiency or method used.