Join SSD Form – Sandia Search Dogs

Name *

First

Last

Email *

Do you consent to undergo a standard background check? *

Yes
No

Are you interested in joining as field support or canine handler? Field support is a vital part of our team that provides support for canine/handler teams on missions and during trainings. Canine handlers are expected to deploy on missions as field support as much as possible until his/her canine is certified. *

Field Support
Canine Handler

SSD trains in the Sandia Mountains and other areas around Albuquerque. Missions occur all over the state in rugged terrain. Because of this, outdoor enthusiasts are best suited for SAR work. What outdoor activities are you involved in and what skills do you feel you would bring to SAR? *

SAR training is physically demanding and one must be able to carry a 35 pound pack and be out in the field for 8 hours or more. Do you have any physical conditions that would hinder your ability to train a dog or deploy on missions? *

Yes
No

If yes, please describe in comments section.

Helping to train or training a dog for SAR requires a significant amount of time on a regular basis. We train three weekends a month and Tuesday evenings. Do you have a schedule that will let you participate in the majority of these trainings? *

Yes
No

If no, please describe in comments section.

Missions never come at a convenient time. Do you have a schedule that allows you to “drop everything” and participate in SAR missions? *

Yes
No

If no, please describe in comments section.

Comments:

(CANINE HANDLER ONLY) Training a dog for SAR cannot be done alone, effectively. Our team members will be committing a lot of time to help you train your dog and teach you personal SAR skills. In return, it is expected that you will also help train others’ dogs and that you work to achieve mission ready status while a member of Sandia Search Dogs. Getting a dog certified for missions usually takes about 2 years and it is expected that you remain active for that amount of time. Do you foresee any problems in your schedule that may hinder this goal?

Yes
No

(CANINE HANDLER ONLY) SAR training is done on a volunteer basis and there is no monetary compensation. Do you have the finances to provide routine veterinary care to your dog and to obtain necessary SAR gear?

Yes
No

(CANINE HANDLER ONLY) Please describe your dog including age, breed, health, and any previous training:

Please note, age for the suitability test is 10 months – 2 years old.

(CANINE HANDLER ONLY) If you have any dog training experience, please describe: