In order to meet the
increasing demand
for SDF Search Teams
in America, SDF urgently
needs more canine
candidates. We are in immediate need of
volunteers who love
dogs and want to join
us in strengthening America’s disaster
response network
by becoming part of
the BARK FORCE.
In the aftermath of an
earthquake, mudslide, or
building collapse, every
minute
is precious in the
race to find survivors. And
no technology can match
the speed and accuracy of
a canine trained to find
people buried alive beneath
the
wreckage. If you love
dogs and want to help
rescued dogs become
rescuers, please call or
email today:
Karen Klingberg at
(888) 459-4376 x 114 or
It doesn’t just take a “special” canine to be a Disaster Search Dog. It takes an extraordinary one! SDF searches animal shelters and breed rescue groups for Labradors and Golden Retrievers in with the extreme drive, boldness, focus and athleticism needed for this line of work. In many cases the dogs are saved from euthanasia, as their over-the-top energy makes it hard for shelters to find homes for them. All these dogs want is a job, and, if they have the qualities we’re looking for, we offer a “dream job,” and a wonderful life as part of a disaster search team.
Prime Hunting Grounds: Northern California and the Western States
Hunting breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers make the best search dogs, and (no surprise!) are most plentiful in regions where hunting is popular. Because of their proximity to our training kennel in Gilroy, CA, we’re especially on the lookout for Bark Force volunteers in NORTHERN CALIFORNIA. (Volunteers are also needed in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Nevada and Arizona.)
Bark Force Duties
Here are some of the opportunities available for new Bark Force members:
Visit local shelters and breed rescue groups on a regular basis to find potential search dog candidates
Test rescued dogs, according to our 10-step procedure (see video link, below)
Transport dogs to and from our training facility Gilroy, California
Surf the internet for search dog candidates on shelter and breed rescue websites
Make phone and email inquiries.
View SDF’s Canine Testing Video
Click here to view our 12-minute video and see what it’s like to test one of these high-drive canines. Our thanks to the Looker Foundation of Summerland, CA, who graciously funded its production.
$1,000 Reward
“For the first time, SDF offers a financial incentive to shelters, humane societies, SPCA’s, and rescue groups who call us with information leading to the recruitment of a Search Dog:”
$100 when the dog passes the first month of training
$400 at the completion of formal training (6 to 8 months)
$500 when the team attains Certification (12-14 months after completion of training)
