28/07/2025
SAR is a huge time commitment, and can be physically and emotionally demanding, but the need is there. If you think you and your dog has what it takes, here’s some info to point you in the right direction.
Interested in Search and Rescue After the Texas Floods?
We’ve received many messages asking how to get involved in search and rescue or train a dog for SAR. Here’s a quick FAQ to help:
How do I know if my dog is a good fit for search and rescue?
You can use the same screening tests we use for shelter dogs. While passing the screening doesn’t guarantee success, it helps identify whether your dog has the drive, focus, and environmental stability needed to work in challenging, distracting conditions.
https://www.cat5k9.org/screen-a-dog
Will Category 5 K9 train my dog?
No. Category 5 K9 runs the Shelter to Search program, which identifies dogs in shelters, rescues, or in need of rehoming that show potential for search work. These dogs are adopted out “green,” meaning they’ve shown strong toy drive, environmental stability, and a willingness to search — but we do not offer training for privately owned dogs.
https://www.cat5k9.org/shelter-to-search
Where can I get my dog trained for search and rescue?
We recommend joining your local SAR team first. Most teams provide handler and K9 training together. A successful handler must be a skilled searcher — understanding search strategies, documentation, and tools like SARCOP or CalTopo — not just someone with a trained dog.
How do I join your team?
Category 5 K9 is made up of current and former members of Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2. Both teams are currently accepting applications.
https://texastaskforce1.org/join/
https://texastaskforce2.org/join/
https://www.cat5k9.org/search-team