  
TSAR K-9 UNIT GUIDELINES
TSAR-K9 is a unit of Taos Search
and Rescue (TSAR), a volunteer organization based in Northern
New Mexico. TSAR works under the auspices of the New Mexico State
Police to aid sick, injured and lost individuals primarily, but
not solely, in wilderness settings.
These guidelines are to provide
clear and consistent objectives for all members of the K-9 unit.
Table of Contents & Page
Navigation
Mission
Statement
TSAR K-9's mission is to provide
properly trained, professional and competent search dog/handler
teams in Northern New Mexico dedicated to help locate missing
persons and to aid in preserving human life.
Members of TSAR K-9 are expected
to follow guidelines set out for training, participate in team
training exercises, demonstrate a team-oriented attitude, and
train themselves and their dogs to the best of their ability,
to ensure that the potential survivor has a well-trained and
highly competent person working towards his/her rescue. With
this in mind, the team recommends that the learning process never
cease and that members continue to keep current on all search
and rescue techniques both during and after meeting the standards
of Evaluation.
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HANDLERS
1. Categories of K-9 Membership
K-9 Prospective:
Anyone considering joining the K-9 unit
is welcome to observe dog trainings. Prospective members must
never bring their own dog to training, even if left in their
vehicle.
K-9 Handler Applicant:
Anyone desiring to join the K-9 Unit must
have submitted their formal application for membership in TSAR,
have fully equipped and checked packs, and have completed all
other obligatory stages to meet the requirements of a TSAR trainee.
Only after the TSAR trainee status is achieved may an individual
apply to the K-9 team. As part of the application process and
to move on to become a K-9 unit dog/handler team in training
they must meet the following criteria:
a. Must
complete an observance period of 3 months, attending 70% of all
scheduled trainings & classroom as a K-9 Unit support person.
This entails taking responsibility for navigation and communication
and serving as subjects for the dogs to find. Applicants may
not attend any training with their own dog.
b. Complete the following required reading: Search and
Rescue Dogs - Training the K-9 Hero, second edition by the American
Rescue Dog Association (ARDA), Tracking for Search and Rescue
Dogs, a Practical Manual for Novice and Advanced Handlers by
Boguslaw P. Gorny, & Scent & the Scenting Dog by William
Syrotuck. Optional additional reading: K-9 Search & Rescue
by Resi Gerritsen and Ruud Haak, Schutzhund Obedience Training
in Drive with Godtfried Dildei by Sheila Booth, & Ready!
The Training of the Search and Rescue Dog by Susan Bulanda.
c. Must own the dog you are planning to train unless,
in the circumstance of co-ownership, the team may consider the
particular specifics of the co-ownership and deem the situation
workable and acceptable.
d. Complete the applicant & dog interview.
e. During the observance period, become a Full Member
of TSAR.
K-9 Handler Trainees:
Trainees are expected to attend 70% of
all trainings in order to remain in the training program. Any
exceptions must be agreed upon by democratic vote from the team.
Each trainee will be paired with a full member who will act as
a mentor during the training period. Trainees are required to
take and pass two different levels of Pre-Evaluation Evaluations
in a specified time period prior to Mission Readiness Evaluation.
Each level of evaluation may be attempted twice in order to receive
a passing score, as long as the second attempt is within the
allotted time frame. Each handler/K-9 team must receive a successful
evaluation with passing scores in order to continue in the next
phase of the training program. If both evaluations are successfully
completed, the handler/K-9 team will continue to work in the
training program toward becoming mission ready.
K-9 Full Members: There are two types of full members:
a. K-9
Handler - is one which has passed, with his/her dog, at least
one TSAR K-9 Mission Readiness Evaluation. Full members must
also be willing to act as support personnel for other handlers,
and can assume positions of responsibility within the K9 unit
organizational structure (See attachment "Delegation of
Responsibilities"). Once you have handled one TSAR Certified
dog, you will retain your full member status as K-9 Handler should
you decide to train a second dog, however the dog will need to
be evaluated before acceptance into the training program and
you and the dog will go through all the same training steps as
any other new dog/handler team in training. K-9 Handlers are
encouraged to participate in all TSAR missions, not just missions
in which dog teams are utilized, as you are first and foremost
an active member of TSAR. As per TSAR guidelines, handlers are
required to participate in 40% of all missions in order to maintain
their full TSAR membership. Each dog/handler team must also realize
that their team may only be utilized in situations requiring
the skills determined by their particular mission readiness Evaluation.
b. K-9 Support Member - is a TSAR full member who regularly
supports the K-9 Unit in their trainings, classes and missions.
They participate as subjects for the dogs to find and participate
as field support in navigation, communications and filing observer
reports. These members are responsible to seek out the required
information to set up appropriate search problems for the dogs
and must fully understand the dog reward process. These members
do not train or handle a dog. (See attachment on K-9 Support
Members).
K-9 Mentors:
A full member who takes on a trainee and personally instructs
them in all aspects of training: setting up search scenarios
for the dog, scent theory, POD, proper handling techniques, reading
the dog, and how to properly motivate and reward the dog. The
mentor is responsible for the success of the trainee handler
and dog.
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2. Organization of Unit
The K-9 unit is organized to optimize
democratic management and responsibilities are delegated to all
members based on individual skills and preferences. All members
are expected to fulfill their responsibilities to the best of
their ability. If a member is unable to perform their duties
due to absence, illness, or personal obligations, the job can
be reassigned to an alternate. Notice of inability to carry out
one's role is imperative. Every 6 months each full member will
fill out an evaluation sheet assessing each of the delegated
positions. These evaluations will be fully reviewed and the holder
of each position will have the opportunity to discuss and consider
improvements (See Attachment "Delegation of Responsibilities").
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3. Professional Conduct
Each TSAR K-9 member represents not only
the K-9 unit, but TSAR as a whole. To promote a positive public
image and help lessen stress in time of emergency the following
conduct from handlers is required: respectfulness, flexibility,
willingness to take direction, sobriety, appropriate grooming
for both humans and animals, and well-maintained equipment. Trainings
and missions are deemed scent free unless otherwise specified
and all parties involved must comply. The ICS (Incident Command
System) will be followed and respected by all members of the
K-9 Unit. Handlers will not use extreme or abusive corrections
nor will they be allowed to mistreat their dogs. Loss of temper
or poor sportsmanship will be cause for immediate review and
possible dismissal from the unit. Handlers will be held responsible
for any damages caused by their dogs.
No one except a designated Information
Officer should speak with the press, media, or members of the
public during a mission. Information regarding subject status
is personal and confidential. Be sensitive when relaying information
via radio; it is not a secure form of communication. Requests
for information or photos from the media regarding operations,
fundraising or training events should be referred to the IC or
IC- designated Information Officer.
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4. Areas of Knowledge
Handlers are required to be proficient
in the following areas:
a. Communications - the use of Family Service Radios and field radios.
HAMM Operations license is encouraged, but not required.
b. Navigation - as required by TSAR: ability to read a
topo map, competent use of compass and gps, & understanding
route selection. Base camp computer map skills is a plus, but
optional.
c. Scent Theory - understanding how a dog's nose works,
how human scent is deposited, conditions under which scent remains
or travels in different weather & terrain, and how it is
related to the Probability of Detection (POD).
d. Probability of Detection - familiarity with
the formulas utilizing wind, convection currents, and humidity
etc. to determine a dog's probability of successful finds. understanding
appropriate use of air scenting and trailing dogs according to
search conditions.
e. Base Camp Operations - understanding effective
dog deployment in the field, selecting search areas for specific
dogs (re: their Evaluation and abilities), plotting dog's progress
in the field on topo, interface with the ICS command system,
etc.
f. ICS System - must pass PACE exam as per TSAR guidelines,
which includes familiarity
with ICS chain of command. (Booklet available from TSAR).
h. First Aid Skills - competence in basic first
aid, litter packaging and evacuation of
subject. competence in first aid for canines. Completion of a
Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA) course is encouraged and
will be funded for full members or reimbursed to trainees upon
becoming full members. A Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course
is also available to full members, but the payment of such course
is subject to board approval.
i. Lost Person Behavior - understanding probable
actions of various types of disoriented individuals, i.e. wilderness-savvy,
children, Alzheimer's sufferers, etc. Written handout based on
statistical studies available.
j. Survival and Winter Skills - sufficient to maintain
one's and others' safety in the field in all weather conditions
day or night (included in TSAR training).
k. Crime Scene Prroceedures - knowledge of crime
scene preservation and deportment as witness in courtroom setting.
l. Man Tracking - basic skills in man-tracking.
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5. Additional Handler Requirements:
In order to be certified with their dog,
handlers must first pass the New Mexico PACE examination. Tests
in scent theory and POD must also be completed and passed.
6. Scheduled Meetings & Trainings
TSAR K9 meets regularly once a week for
field training, once a month for class room training, and once
a month for a general K-9 unit meeting (these meetings/trainings
may be combined for efficiency and ease of scheduling). In addition,
each handler is responsible to arrange his/her own informal trainings
with other individual members of the unit or outside handlers/trainers
each week and must document at least one additional search problem
for their dog each week in their training logs. A weekly obedience/agility
training is also available for handlers and is optional. Training
with other K-9 teams is supported and encouraged, nevertheless
handlers are obligated to attend 70% of regularly scheduled meetings
and trainings annually and undergo periodic evaluations by the
TSAR K-9 Unit Leader, the Search Training Coordinator, and by
outside experienced professional K-9 handlers. Medical, personal,
or business leaves of absence may be taken if agreed upon by
the unit. Handlers and dogs are required to meet pre-test and
Evaluation requirements within the allotted time limits set for
each.
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7. Health and Safety
Since the K9 unit is a subdivision of
TSAR, TSAR standards apply to all members. This means all field
personnel must be in good health, reasonably fit, and familiar
with wilderness survival skills and safety precautions, i.e.,
"we are here to help the subject, not become one."
Individuals with minor medical conditions or physical limitations
are responsible for informing members of the unit regarding such
and for monitoring themselves during trainings and missions.
8. Training Logs and Health Records
Each handler will maintain an individual
training log, including up-to-date health records for his/her
dog and all Training Checklists and Evaluation Score Sheets.
The Search Training Coordinator will also keep a group log book
containing records of every training and classroom, health records,
and other pertinent documanetation on each dog. Handler is required
to bring his/her log book to all meetings and trainings and have
it available for evaluation by the K-9 Unit Leader and/or Search
Training Coordinator. The information maintained in the log book
is valuable in training to evaluate where mistakes have been
made, when fluency is reached, when to move forward, and may
probably be required to attend an out-of-town seminar. The log
book may also be requested in a court of law, if a handler is
requested to give testimony on their and their dog's reputation.
The log book will be required at the time of all Evaluations.
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9. Finances
TSAR has allocated funds for the K-9 unit
for specialized team equipment and educational materials. The
TSAR Board of Directors will decide if additional funding should
be allocated in the case that individuals would like to attend
additional, outside professional K-9 search training seminars.
On missions, handlers are responsible for keeping their gasoline
receipts when attending a mission in order to be reimbursed through
TSAR by the State.
10. Mission Readiness
Mission readiness at all times is advised,
particularly since dogs may be called out on a Hasty Search.
Ideally one's vehicle should be well-maintained, with sound tires
and a spare and a full tank of gas. Keeping a full pack and canine
supplies for 24 hours, radio, gps, and spare batteries in the
vehicle is advised. See Attachment "Equipment" for
list of additional required items above and beyond what TSAR
requires you to carry. (Note: as a volunteer, one can decline
to participate in any mission for which you feel mentally or
physically unprepared).
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11. Suggestions and Complaints
Suggestions and complaints should be tactfully
expressed according to standard procedure. Open communication
among all members of the K-9 unit is strongly encouraged and
harmonious relations between members must be maintained.
It is the responsibility of each handler to resolve any conflicts
immediately, as conflict can affect the working success of the
unit - both people and dogs. If a grievance has been attempted
to be resolved, but without appropriate results, the individual
is required to address the situation in writing to the Unit Leader.
The Unit Leader is then responsible to mediate and help resolve
the problem in a harmonious manner. Grievances with the Unit
Leader should ideally be addressed directly to the Unit Leader.
If satisfaction cannot be reached, a letter to the Board should
be sent addressing all concerns with the K-9 Unit Leader.
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CANINES
1. Suitability
Not all dogs are suited to search and
rescue work. Individual dogs vary in level of scenting ability,
drive, stamina, and focus. TSAR K-9 will evaluate applicants'
dogs for suitability as well as conduct periodic evaluations
of dogs in training to determine if they should continue in the
training program. TSAR K-9 will require handlers and dogs to
successfully complete three Pre-Evaluations before going on to
Mission Readiness Evaluation.
2.
Obedience
Good manners and their handler's safety
awareness are mandatory for search dogs at trainings and on missions.
Dogs must be leashed, crated or inside vehicles at base camps.
Specific play and relief areas will be designated. Dogs should
not behave aggressively with other dogs or people. The Unit Leader,
Training Coordinators and outside canine behavior specialists
will record and monitor progress in overcoming obedience problems.
Females in heat should not be brought to trainings or on missions.
Specific obedience and/or agility requirements must be met during
Pre- Evaluations and Mission Readiness Evaluation.
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EVALUATION
& MISSION READINESS
No dog/handler team will be deployed in
the field at an actual search mission until it has received approval
by the TSAR Board of Directors for Mission Readiness Status.
1. Search Modalities
The initial Evaluation for TSAR K-9 is
in wilderness search. Any additional secondary Evaluation may
be obtained after this initial Evaluation has been achieved.
In addition to the special forms of scent detection, search dogs
undergo obedience and agility training to enhance their direct-ability
while working and their ability to navigate natural and manmade
obstacles; desensitization training to accustom them to the noise
of aircraft and the sensation of being hoisted into planes or
over extreme terrain. Evaluation tests will not only assess the
dog's ability for search and successful find, but will assess
their abilities in obedience, agility, and general fitness as
well.
Mission Readiness Evaluation can be obtained in the following
search modalities:
a. Air Scent - dogs are trained to detect airborne scent
from humans in a given area. They can cover large areas quickly,
either locating subjects who are present or establishing their
absence, thus clearing an area.
b. Tracking/Trailing - dogs are trained to follow scent
deposited on or near the ground. They are usually trained to
follow the scent of specific individuals, more or less along
the path the subject took. They can be used to establish direction
of travel from the point the subject was last seen and can follow
the subject's path for long distances.
c. Urban - dogs are trained to locate human scent beneath
building rubble, in buildings and various urban environments.
d. Human Remains Detection - dogs are trained for human
remains detection, above and below ground.
e. Water - dogs are trained for human remains detection
beneath water.
f. Avalanche - dogs are trained to locate human scent
beneath snow.
g. Evidence - dogs are trained to locate articles with
human scent.
Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation
can be obtained in the following specialties:
a. Air Scent: Scent Specific,
Live Find, Wilderness
b. Air Scent: Generic, Live Find, Wilderness
c. Air Scent: Scent Specific & Generic: Live Find, Urban
d. Tracking/Trailing: Scent Specific, Live Find, Wilderness
e. Tracking/Trailing: Scent Specific, Live Find,
Urban
f. Human Remains Detection: Wilderness & Urban, Air
Scent or Tracking/Trailing
Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation can be obtained in the
following specialties:
a. Air Scent: Scent Specific, Live Find, Wilderness &
Urban
b. Air Scent: Generic, Live Find, Wilderness & Urban
c. Tracking/Trailing: Scent Specific, Live Find, Wilderness
& Urban
d. Human Remains Detection: Wilderness & Urban, Air Scent
or Tracking/Trailing
Secondary Mission Readiness Evaluations
may be obtained in any of the above Level I or Level II specialties,
as well as the following specialties:
a. Water Search: Air Scent , Human
Remains
b. Avalanche Search: Air Scent, Live Find, Human Remains,
& Beacon
c. Evidence Search: Tracking, Wilderness & Urban
2.
Training, Evaluation, & Evaluation Time-Line
The evaluation process is a part of the
training protocol required to properly prepare a handler and
dog for Mission Readiness. If a team does not pass an evaluation
on the first try, the team may take the evaluation again within
a two month window. If a team fails the same test twice, the
team will meet with the K-9 Unit Leader and Full Members of the
K-9 Unit for a review to determine whether or not the team will
be allowed to continue training. Outside individuals from established
SAR teams will conduct all Mission Readiness Evaluations of TSAR
K-9 teams.
1. Pre-Evaluation I - must successfully complete within 6 months
of the first day of training.
2. Pre-Evaluation II - must successfully complete within
6 months of passing Pre-Evaluation I.
3. Pre-Evaluation III - must be completed and signed to
the satisfaction of the TSAR K-9 Unit Leader within 1 year of
passing Pre-Evaluation II.
4. Level I Mission Readiness Evaluation - must successfully
complete within 1 year of passing the Pre-Test Evaluation II.
Therefore, a dog/handler team has up to 2 years to complete training
and achieve mission readiness status.
5. Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation - must successfully
complete within 8 months of passing the Level I Mission Readiness
Evaluation or a Secondary MRE.
6. Secondary Mission Readiness Evaluation - must successfully
complete within 8 months of passing the Level I Mission Readiness
Evaluation or Level II Mission Readiness Evaluation.
7. Maintaining Mission Readiness Status - For teams meeting
TSAR K-9 Unit attendance requirements: every 2 years. For teams
not meeting TSAR K-9 Unit attendance requirements: every year.
3.
Maintaining Mission Readiness Status
A dog/handler team must periodically re-evaluate
to verify that their knowledge and skills have been properly
maintained. The re-evaluation time-line depends on the participatory
level of the team with the K-9 unit. If a dog/handler team meets
their 70% of scheduled meetings and trainings, their mission
readiness status is honored for 2 years. However, if a dog/handler
team does not regularly participate, their mission readiness
status is honored for 1 year. A team only needs to be re-evaluated
at the level and specialty of their particular specialty.
List of Attachments
A. Delegation of Responsibilities - pages
8-11
B. Equipment - page 12
C. K-9 Handler Trainee Application - pages 13-15
D. K-9 Support Member - page 16
E. Leadership - pages 17-19
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Attachment
A
Delegation of Responsibilities
The TSAR K-9 Unit operates through democratic
process. The Unit Leader is the overseer of this process and
as such facilitates consensus-based decisions regarding training.
(Standard TSAR guidelines and ICP chain-of-command will, of course,
be observed on missions.) Individuals are expected to share responsibility
for the functioning of the group as stated in the outline below.
A review of each position is to be held every six months and
re-election is to be held annually
UL = Unit Leader (Delinda VanneBrightyn)
- Board Position
- Oversees all functional aspects of unit,
making (if necessary) & coordinating final decisions
- Delegates assignments to unit members
and oversees progress of each
- Responsible for overall technical progress
& working harmony of unit
- Organizes public appearances and publicity
interface (w/ PR Coordinator)
- Oversees Fundraising for unit (w/ PR
Coordinator)
- Facilitates all Field Search Training
w/ assistance from STC
- Organizes all Classroom Training (w/
further delegation)
- Organizes and facilitates out-of-town
training (w/ STC)
- Organizes and facilitates guest trainers
- Responsible for maintaining navigation/communication
records for missions
- Fills out forms and applications for
the team
- Oversees all Evaluation testing
- Mediator
- Monthly report to unit
Qualities of UL = must be at least 80% available for all
TSAR K-9 related events, strong leadership understanding and
skills, good at delegation of responsibilities, displays good
mediator abilities to maintain harmonious working group dynamics,
excellent organizational skills, excellent knowledge of scent
theory & K- 9 POD, abreast of SAR K-9 training methodologies,
maintains a complete up-to-date knowledge of TSAR Guidelines
and Evaluation Standards as well as international SAR K-9 guidelines
& Evaluation standards.
STC = Search Training Coordinator (Delinda VanneBrightyn)
- Second to UL
- Organizes and schedules all field: Training
Teams, BCC, Subjects, etc.
- Plans trainings to collectively meet
all Evaluation requirements
- Responsible for maintaining navigation/communication
records for training
- Secures maps and other documents for
training areas
- Organizes and maintains training records
- Assists UL with out-of-town trainings,
guest units/teams and guest trainers
- Records weather and terrain data for
trainings & e-mails records to unit
- Maintains unit map box
- Tallies & reports on handler attendance
each month
- Weekly report to UL and monthly report
to unit
Qualities of STC = must be at least 85% available for
all search trainings, excellent organizational skills, able at
record keeping, excellent knowledge of scent theory & K-
9 POD, abreast of SAR K-9 training methodologies, maintains a
complete up-to-date knowledge of TSAR Guidelines and Evaluation
Standards as well as international SAR K-9 guidelines & Evaluation
standards.
SY = Secretary ()
- Third to UL
- Takes and archives minutes of every meeting
or delegates taking of minutes
- Maintains any documentation needed by
the team
- Maintains all safety & guideline
documents & written standards
- Maintains current veterinary records
on all K-9s (w/ duplicates kept by STC)
- Archives all photographs, press, and
other documentation
- Copies all unit materials and handouts
- Maintains web site and unit calendar
(w/ further delegation)
- Maintains & reports all suggestions
and complaints
- Maintains all classroom training information
(books, handouts, videos, etc.)
- Librarian for all team literature (books,
videos, etc.): check-in & check-out records
- Orders team equipment under direction
of UL & interfaces with TSAR treasurer to obtain funds on
"as needed" basis
- Weekly report to UL (as necessary) and
monthly report to unit
Qualities of SY = competent writing & organizational
skills, good at keeping records and papers current (timely),
good at overseeing financial records.
TR = Treasurer ()
- Maintains accounts for all funds, incoming
and outgoing
- Makes monthly recommendation report
- Keeps the budget in line and overviewed
- Assists SY with purchases and interface
with TSAR treasurer
- Weekly report to UL (as necessary) &
monthly written financial report to UL Leader and unit
- Qualities of TR
= competent organizational skills, good at keeping records and
papers current (timely), good at keeping clear & concise
financial records.
MSO = Medical & Safety Officer/Coordinator
()
- Maintains K-9 first aid training for
all handlers
- Maintains K-9 first-aid kit
- Responsible for calling K-9 medical decisions
- Assists handlers to maintain individual
K- 9 first-aid kits
- Implements and oversees safety and health
precautions for all K-9s & handlers
- Assumes responsibility for all safety
& guidelines to be met during training and missions
- Trains new handlers and ground support
in K-9 safety & guidelines
- Answers all protocol questions
- Monthly report to UL and unit
Qualities of MSO = functional working knowledge of K-9
medical & safety, maintains complete knowledge of safety
guidelines, good people skills to impart & enforce these
guidelines.
AOTC = Obedience & Agility Training
Coordinator (Delinda VanneBrightyn)
- Schedules and coordinates obedience/agility
trainings
- Plans trainings to meet all obedience
and agility requirements
- Sets up special guest obedience/agility
sessions
- Maintains obedience & agility records
for all K-9s
- Weekly report to UL and monthly report
to unit
Qualities of AOTC = must be at least 85% available for
all obedience trainings, abreast of K-9 obedience & agility
training methodologies, good at record keeping, maintains a complete
up-to-date knowledge of SAR obedience/agility Evaluation standards.
LC = Location Scout ()
- Scouts new locations for trainings (each
to be approved by STC)
- Secures locations
- Helps training coordinator to secure
maps for locations
- Provides GPS coordinates for all locations
- Flags/marks highway turnoff & destination
for unit on training days
- Monthly report to UL, STC and unit
Qualities of LC = has reliable transportation, has very
good working knowledge of the GPS, good at giving directions,
willingness to seek out wilderness destinations.
RC = Recreation Coordinator ()
- Plans and facilitates unit hikes
- Plans and facilitates unit gatherings
- Plans and facilitates health & stamina
building exercises for handler and K-9s
- Plans & arranges extracurricular
activities = films, videos, etc.
- Monthly report to UL and unit
Qualities of RC = good at organization & planning,
creative in new ideas, consistent.
MC = Mentorship Coordinator (Delinda VanneBrightyn)
- Interfaces new handler/support applications
& maintains records of new applicants
- Welcomes and orients new handlers &
support members
- Assigns new handlers to a mentor
- Oversees all mentors & makes sure
the match is working very well
- Determines when the handler graduates
from the mentorship program
- Interviews and evaluates new applicants
w/ assistance from UL and STC
- Weekly report to STC and monthly report
to UL and unit
Qualities of MC = good at evaluating people and putting
them together, excellent people skills, good organizational skills,
consistent.
NCC = Navigation & Communications
Coordinator ()
- Responsible for advanced training in
navigation & communication for handlers
- Helps unit to fully understand &
utilize standardized K-9 radio language
- Oversees navigation responsibilities
during applicable trainings under STC
- Makes sure each team has navigation &
communication person(s) & equipment in place during a mission
- Reserves all spaces for training and
events
- Heads telephone and e-mail communication
tree for unit re: trainings & missions
- Monthly report to UL and unit
Qualities of NCC = competent working knowledge in navigation
& communications (GPS, map, compass, & radio protocol),
ability to clearly communicate these skills to others, &
ability to organize rapid team communications for training &
mission purposes.
EC = Equipment Coordinator ()
- Keeps records and maintenance on all
K-9 particular equipment
- Helps new handlers with available equipment
and acquisition recommendations
- Suggests new equipment needed for budget
review
- Maintains lists of K-9 handler equipment
and regularly checks handlers to ensure appropriate equipment
is maintained, including mandatory pack check every 6 months
(unless pack check has already been done by TSAR)
- Monthly report to UL and unit
Qualities of EC = good organizational skills & record
keeping, good at research.
PRC = PR Coordinator ()
- Sets up publicity coverage for all appropriate
events
- Interfaces with press to insure accuracy
in reporting & image maintenance
- Writes & designs all promotional
materials: flyers, press releases, ads, etc. (to be approved
by TSAR Board before release)
- Provides accounting of and publicity
materials to secretary for archival
- Monthly report to UL and unit
Qualities of PRC = has contacts in press, consistent,
timely
BCC = Base-Camp K-9 Unit Coordinators
(Cliff Peckham)
- Technical Specialists for K-9 Unit
- Maintains clear familiarity with each
dog/handler team, their abilities and limitations
- Oversees all record-keeping & accuracy
of reporting while teams are deployed in the field: navigation,
alerts, reports, etc.
- Keeps K-9 handler communication standardized
throughout the mission to maintain the highest level of accuracy
in reporting
- End of mission report to UL and monthly
report to unit
Qualities of BCC = good at clear & concise record
keeping, working knowledge of K-9 utilization, communication,
& deployment in the field, functional knowledge of scent
theory & K- 9 POD.
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Attachments: A.
Delegation of Responsibilities | B.
Equipment | C. K-9 Handler Trainee
Application | D. K-9 Support Member
| E. Leadership
Attachment
B
B. EQUIPMENT
SAR dog handlers should have all the
equipment required for TSAR pack requirements plus the following:
- K-9 log book
- Crate
- Dog ID
- Radio - family band
- Extra Water - for the dog
- Extra First Aid Kit - with supplies specific
to K-9
- Food - for the dog (24 hrs)
- Packable Dog Dish/Water Bowl
- Dog Vest or Harness - appropriate for
visibility in day and night conditions
- Lead:
- track/trailing dogs are required to have
a 20'-30' lead
- air scent dogs are required to have a
4' - 6' lead
- Shadbrack Bell (for air scent dogs or
dogs tracking off-lead only)
- Light Sticks, Lighted Collar, and/or
Attached Lights - for night searches
- Plastic Bags - for storing scent articles
- Plastic Bags - for disposing of dog waste
- Motivational Food/Toys
- Copy of Dog's Vaccination Record (to
be kept in log book)
- Optional Equipment:
- Dog Boots
- Insulated Vest - for short hair dogs
in winter
- K-9 1st Aid Book
- Hand Held Weather Instrument
- Lift Harness
- Ear Protection
Items for K-9 1st Aid Kit (The below
items are additional and not a complete K-9 first aid kit, however
the K-9 kit does not have to duplicate items which are already
carried in the required TSAR first aid kit):
- Muzzle
- Safety Pins
- Scissors
- Eyedrops
- Opthalmix Ointment
- Needle
- Tweezers
- Sting ease
- Hot and cold packs
- Any prescription drugs your dog may need
TOP OF PAGE
Attachments: A.
Delegation of Responsibilities | B.
Equipment | C. K-9 Handler Trainee
Application | D. K-9 Support Member
| E. Leadership
Attachment
C
Handler Trainee Application
A. Handler/Dog Trainee Application
Process
- In order to apply as a handler trainee
to the TSAR K-9 Unit, you must first fulfill the following criteria:
1. Applicant must be a current
TSAR trainee in good standing and must be making progress toward
becoming a full TSAR member by attending the required trainings
and learning the required subjects. This is important since you
and your dog will not be allowed to begin K-9 training until
full membership status is completed. Applicant must own the dog
which he/she is applying to train unless, in the circumstance
of co-ownership, the team has considered the particular specifics
of co-ownership and deemed the situation workable and acceptable.
2. Applicant must successfully complete the "Applicant
Interview" with the K-9 Unit Leader, the Search Training
Coordinator, and one other K-9 Handler.
3. Applicant's dog must successfully complete the new
dog evaluation with the K-9 Unit Leader, the Search Training
Coordinator, and one other K-9 Handler.
4. Applicant must complete an observance period of three
months, attending 70% of all scheduled K-9 field and classroom
trainings as a K-9 unit support person. This entails taking responsibility
for navigation and communication and serving as a subject for
the dogs to find. Applicants may not attend any of these trainings
with their dog, even if it is left in their vehicle. Applicant
must properly maintain his/her TSAR pack during this period and
must have their pack at all field trainings.
5. Applicant must complete the following required reading
in order to have a better understanding of the K-9 unit, its
expectations, training and mission procedures and to be prepared
in the proper handling of his/her dog:
- Scent and the Scenting Dog - by William
Syrotuck: ISBN# 0970049420: Barkleigh Productions Inc.
- Search and Rescue Dogs - Training the
K-9 Hero, second edition - by ARDA, the American Rescue Dog Association:
ISBN# 0-7645-6703-9: Howell Book House.
- Tracking for Search and Rescue Dogs,
a Practical Manual for Novice and Advanced Handlers - by Boguslaw
P. Gorny: ISBN# 1-55059-242-4: Detselig Enterprises, Ltd
- 6.
Once steps 1-5 have been met, the applicant must successfully
complete the "Handler Trainee Interview" with the K-9
Unit Leader, the Search Training Coordinator, and one other K-9
handler.
7. If accepted, applicant must acquire the appropriate
K-9 equipment in order to attend his/her first training with
his/her dog: water bowl, leash appropriate to search modality,
dog crate.
B. Applicant Interview
1. Applicant
is informed what is required in time and commitment in order
to successfully train a search dog and reach mission readiness.
2 . Applicant is asked to fill out a brief questionnaire:
- Why are you interested in training a
search dog?
- How old is your dog? What breed?
- What qualities does your dog possess
that you think will be valuable in becoming a search dog?
- What qualities do you possess that you
deem valuable in your success as a K-9 handler?
- Please describe your weekly work schedule.
- Are you good at following directions?
- Do you consider yourself a good team
player? Why?
3. Applicant
may be asked specific questions about their response on the questionnaire.
4. The applicant's willingness to train and ability to
commit is evaluated.
C. K-9 Evaluation for Prospective Dogs
1. Various
tests will be given to help determine the general temperament
of the dog.
2. Various tests will also be given to determine whether
or not the dog displays suitable & workable qualities of
drive and focus for search training.
3. The dog/handler relationship is observed and evaluated.
4. The handler is asked to demonstrate at least 3 out
of the following 5 obedience commands with their dog (their choice)
(puppies are excluded from this portion):
- Sit
- Down
- Stay
- Recall
- Heel
D. Handler Trainee Interview
Once steps 1-5 have been met in the
Application Process, the applicant is given the final Handler
Trainee Interview:
- Applicant is reminded of needing to obtain
the appropriate equipment for his/her K-9 before being allowed
to attend trainings with his/her dog.
- Applicant is given an evaluation of their
participation in the last 3 months of trainings and is asked
to respond to this evaluation.
- Applicant is required to take a basic
test reviewing the most basic information taken from the required
reading. Although there is no certain score required to "pass"
the test, the evaluators must be satisfied that the applicant
has a basic beginning understanding of the material.
- Applicant is observed one more time with
their dog.
|
TSAR
K-9 UNIT APPLICANT QUESTIONAIRE |
|
NAME: |
|
DATE: |
|
1. Why are you interested in training
a search dog?
|
|
2. How old is your dog? What breed? |
|
3. What qualities does your dog
possess that you think will be valuable in becoming a search
dog?
|
|
4. What qualities do you possess
that you deem valuable in your success as a K-9 handler?
|
|
5. Please describe your weekly work
schedule.
|
|
6. Are you good at directions? |
|
7. Do you consider yourself a good
team player? Why? |
|
Signature of Applicant: |
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TOP OF PAGE
Attachments: A.
Delegation of Responsibilities | B.
Equipment | C. K-9 Handler Trainee
Application | D. K-9 Support Member
| E. Leadership
Attachment
D
TSAR K-9 Support Member
A support member is a TSAR full member
who regularly supports the K-9 Unit in their trainings, classes
and missions. They participate as subjects for the dogs to find
and participate as field support in navigation, communications
and filing observer reports or to provide base camp support.
These members are responsible to seek out the required information
to set up appropriate search problems for the dogs and must fully
understand the dog reward process. These members do not train
or handle a dog.
Support members are required to attend
50% of all K-9 Unit classroom meetings and will be trained in
the field over a two-three month period.
As a Support Member of the K-9 Unit, you
are responsible for critical aspects of training and during missions:
- must understand the specifics of playing
"subject" for the dog
- must learn how to properly lay a variety
of tracks
- must learn to properly set up an air
scent find
- must learn and be able to properly execute
the various reward systems for each dog in training
- must be willing to learn or already have
good or excellent navigational skills
- must be willing to learn or already have
good or excellent radio skills
- must be physically fit in order to set
up a variety of search scenarios for beginning to advanced dogs:
involves hiking short distances to several miles in various types
of terrain and 5 minutes of vigorous, aerobic play with the dog
when "found"
- must be able to listen well and accurately
follow directions from the handlers
- During missions, the support person is
the responsible team member for navigation and communication,
following just behind the dog/handler team.
TOP OF PAGE
Attachments: A.
Delegation of Responsibilities | B.
Equipment | C. K-9 Handler Trainee
Application | D. K-9 Support Member
| E. Leadership
Attachment
E
LEADERSHIP
This is a document comprised of class
notes from the Leadership class given at ESCAPE '04. It is included
as an attachment to TSAR K-9 Guidelines in an effort to educate
and remind all members about the points of good leadership. Whether
in a position of leadership through the Delegation of Responsibilities
or looking to the leadership of another, we feel this definition
and outline is an important benchmark for understanding and direction
for leaders and subordinates alike.
Leadership - To have goals met by directing
others.
Essential Qualities of a Leader
Accountability
- accounting for what you have done, right or wrong. No shifting
of blame.
Anticipation
- Ability to think ahead. Reflects your experience & training.
Competitiveness
- With self- have to want & always strive to do better.
Courage
- Not afraid to make a decision. Be confidently able to trust
your fate & reputation on what someone else does.
Credibility
- Others must believe & trust you. You must always be believable.
Decisiveness
- Must have knowledge training & experience to confidently
make quick decisions.
Dependability
- The result of credibility.
Desire
- You have to want to be a leader.
Emotional Stamina - The length you can maintain emotional stability.
Empathy
- A genuine understanding of why people do what they do.
Loyalty
- You must be on board with the program (not out for yourself).
You must know that those under you are loyal to you & that
you are loyal to them = TRUST.
Physical Stamina
- You must exhibit the physical stamina to do what you are asking
others to do.
Responsibility
- To say you will do it & then you do it - no questions.
Self Confidence
- Confidence is contagious & a lack of it shows. You must
speak & act with confidence to instill confidence among others.
Stewardship
- You must take care of your own - take worries away from your
people because they are out doing your work.
Tenacity
- Stick to it. Be committed to the job until it is done.
Timing
- It is essential to know when "to" & when "not
to". Sometimes if you put things off, they get better, but
sometimes they do not.
Essential Actions of a Leader
- Utilizes Valuable, Capable People - a leader is never threatened by knowledgeable,
capable people under his direction, even if they know more than
the leader themselves. A wise leader knows how to effectively
nurture & utilize this person to the best advantage of the
whole. A good leader would never run off such a valuable asset
to the team.
- Puts the Program First - The objective of a good leader is to put the
goal & team first, to make the program work better, not to
make himself or herself look better.
- Willingness to Grow - A good leader is willing to continue growth
& learning & to show others they are still working to
improve themselves. This benefits everyone.
- Ability to Learn From Your Mistakes - If a leader does not learn from his/her mistakes,
then others will be unwilling to follow them. You may make a
dumb mistake once, but it is best to never repeat it. A good
leader will recognize their mistake, be willing to admit the
mistake to others, & then take action to not make it again.
- Enhance & Hold on to Personal
& Corporate Honor - Personal
honor is your own personal reputation & corporate honor is
how you represent your entire organization. This is a primary
job of the leader.
- Displays & Facilitates Discipline
& Builds Moral - Discipline
is doing something regularly, correctly, & in a structured
manner. Discipline builds moral, the cornerstone of confidence
& willingness. A good leader sets an example by "Do
as I do, not do as I say". A good leader keeps a good &
positive structure of discipline within his team.
- Has Respect for the Position - A good leader shows respect for the position
he/she holds, does not demand respect for his/her self because
the position is bigger than the individual holding it. As a leader,
this is a double-edge sword: respect for the privileges that
come with leadership & acceptance of the responsibilities
as well. You must be willing to take your "perks",
as this shows respect for the position, but at the same time,
you must honorably bear all of the responsibility as well.
- Ability to Show Respect - A good leader always shows proper courtesy
& respect to subordinates. They must show proper courtesy
& respect to those above them as well.
- Displays Proper Appearance, Uniform,
& Equipment - A good leader
will always be appropriate in grooming, dress, & have the
proper equipment for the job, as this commands respect &
credibility. They must wear what is expected in order to fulfill
the idea of their position and present the position in a professional
manner.
- Decisiveness
- It is far more important to make a decision than to remain
in indecisiveness. Indecisiveness means you fail to take responsibility.
Decisiveness takes courage. The ability
to make difficult decisions distinguishes the leader from the
led.
- Informed
- A leader must have knowledge of the issue before making a decision.
- Delegates Responsibility - A leader must delegate to his/her subordinates.
In this action, the leader takes all the responsibility for the
result (good or bad), but never interferes with the subordinate
unless asked for help. However, if a subordinate asks for help,
then it is the leader's responsibility to give them that help.
- Appropriately Gives Up Control - There is no place for micromanagement. Micromanagement
is insecurity. A leader must allow subordinates to make decisions
at their level. Therefore, a good leader will do his/her best
to prepare their subordinates for the tasks at hand, but then
will surrender the outcome.
- Shows Appreciation - A good leader rewards others, but not for doing
less than expected. A leader cannot reward everyone for everything
every time they do what is asked, but a "thank you"
is a good idea as often as possible. Praise for those who are
good & loyal followers is very much in order, as a leader
must nurture this type of behavior for the success of the team.
- Survives Failure
- It is not always going to work. A good leader will learn from
failure and will survive it. They never shoot the messenger who
bears the bad news, but also has full authority to shoot the
messenger who fails to bring the bad news. A subordinate who
is not willing to bear the bad news to the leader is not a valuable
asset to the leader or the team.
Essential Responsibilities of a Leader
- Establishes the Atmosphere - A leader establishes a professional atmosphere
and adds his/her own personal flavor to the general working atmosphere
from there: busy & kinetic, calm & focused, positive
& upbeat, etc.
- Establishes a High Level of Trust - You only get one chance to make a first impression.
- A leader must play it straight &
be believable to those above, to piers, & to subordinates
alike.
- Trust can be lost in one action.
- Provides Direction - A leader values people, their time & efforts.
A good leader never lets people wander.
- Accepts Recognition - A leader receives more recognition and must
accept it. A good leader acknowledges his subordinates efforts
in the light of his/her own recognition & makes sure they
receive their due credit for a job well done. A leader never
takes advantage of his/her subordinates.
Being a leader is often a lonely place
to be. You are not there to make friends, but to keep the goal
of the team in mind, the intentions in the right place, to make
decisions, and to step up to the plate as the leader.
TAKE IT! DO IT! DO THE BEST YOU CAN!
LEARN FROM IT!
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