Training
– Training begins when the dog is a puppy.
– Typically takes 2 to 4 years to pass required tests.
– Common dog breeds used include German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, and Golden Retriever.
– Dogs are selected and trained for successful field work.
– Training includes working despite distractions and positive reinforcement.
Cadaver dogs
– Specially trained to detect buried or concealed human remains.
– Used to find burial sites dating back thousands of years.
– Used to locate unmarked graves of Indigenous children.
– Work closely with police, death investigators, and anthropologists.
– Trained with exposure to target scents and training aids.
Organizations
– International Search and Rescue Dog Organisation (IRO) coordinates worldwide disaster relief missions.
– FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Task Force deploys dogs and handlers to emergency sites.
– Emergency Response Team Search and Rescue responds to emergencies in the UK and Canada.
– Special Tasks and Rescue Dog Operations Unit supports the South Australia Police.
– Canada Search Dog Association conducts local searches and public education events.
Notable dogs
– Beauty, a Wirehaired Terrier, served during World War II.
– Frida, a Labrador Retriever, was a search and rescue dog for the Mexican Navy.
– Jake, a Labrador Retriever, worked during the September 11 attacks and Hurricane Katrina.
– Orion, a Rottweiler, saved at least 37 people from drowning during flash floods.
– Rex, entered burning buildings to find trapped people during World War II.
Fictional representation
– The television series PAW Patrol features a team of SAR dogs.