A handler must train and develop a strong relationship with their K9 partner in order to be an effective pairing.
This training never ends.
“Train until you can’t get it wrong.”
The decision to train in search and rescue is not something to be taken lightly. K9s and their handlers will invest significant amounts of their time and resources to become a certified K9 pairing.
“It never ends.”
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Training and working with our K9s is a huge portion of how we spend our time. The dogs must not only learn to use their noses but also learn agility skills, obedience commands and how to trust and work seamlessly with their handler. Ultimately, an effective K9 and their handler will combine all these aspects in order to perform a disaster search.
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K9 handlers must be comprehensively trained in all aspects of search and rescue. Often referred to as “urban search and rescue” our handlers must be familiar with the techniques and methodology used by the United Nations International Search and Rescue Advisory Group.
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VISDDAC members are also required to be proficient in K9 first aid, human first aid, K9 scent theory and a multitude of other skills and courses.