DOGS-East

Information for Prospective Members

DOGS-East is a volunteer canine search and rescue group supporting requests from partner agencies. This page outlines what to expect, how to get started, and helpful resources. (UI-only for now.)

Steps to Join Member Requirements SAR Equipment List

Emergency Resource

DOGS-East Search and Rescue for missing persons is an emergency resource. If you have an emergency, please contact your local authorities or call 911. If you are a state agency and need our assistance, please contact the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) at (804) 674-2400.

Overview

DOGS-East responds to requests from partner agencies and may be called to assist at any time. Official training is typically held weekly, and members are expected to train outside of group sessions as well.

Volunteer commitment
Ongoing training, learning, and readiness.
Team training
Weekly sessions + individual practice during the week.
Coverage
Primarily Northern & Central Virginia areas.

Search Pattern (High-Level)

Dogs are trained to recognize and alert on human scent. The basic sequence below mirrors the old page, but is presented in a cleaner layout.

SEARCH
Dog actively searches off-lead; handler observes behavior indicating detection.
ALERT
Observable behavior change that can be reported as a clue if a find is not made.
FIND
Dog follows scent to the subject/location (mechanism may vary).
INDICATION
Dog returns to handler and communicates the find via trained indication.
REFIND
Dog leads handler back to the subject after communicating the find.

Member Requirements

  • Attend trainings consistently
  • Train independently throughout the week
  • Maintain safety and operational readiness
  • Complete required evaluations and standards
  • Support team communications and coordination
What to expect Steps to Becoming an Operational Handler for DOGS-East SAR Training Substitution Guidelines Training Log Sheet - sample Suggested Reading List Written Test Study Guide Search Evaluation Study Guide Obedience Tests Study Guides First Aid Field Kit Contents

Steps to Becoming an Operational Handler

  1. Attend a training session
    Meet the team, observe, and learn what membership involves.
  2. Review expectations
    Time commitment, travel, training schedule, and standards.
  3. Begin foundational training
    Start your training path with guidance from experienced members.
  4. Prepare for evaluations
    Work toward required skill checks and operational readiness.

SAR Equipment List

Split into vehicle vs pack like the old site (placeholders for now).

Recommended equipment and supplies to keep in your vehicle for DOGS-East training or response readiness.

Clothing for 3 Days

  • Uniforms
    • Pants
    • Shirts
    • T-Shirts
  • Long underwear for cold weather
  • Socks
  • Hat
  • Coat / Jacket

Footwear

  • Spare boots
  • Comfortable shoes

Food & Personal Supplies

  • Food for 3 days for you and your dog
  • Toiletries
  • Towels
  • Water
  • Pillow

Shelter & Weather

  • Tent and sleeping pad, if you cannot sleep in your vehicle
  • Sleeping bag
  • Life vest
  • Space blankets
  • Blanket / poncho liner

Medical & Safety

  • Extra first aid supplies
  • Compass and whistle
  • Cyalume sticks or strobe
  • Flea / tick spray

Spare Items

  • Pens / paper
  • Batteries
    • Radio
    • Light source
  • Radio AC recharger
  • Lighters
  • Flagging tape
  • Leash
  • Carabiners of different sizes
  • Plastic bags
    • Radio covers

Cooking & Lighting

  • Cook kit
  • Large flashlight or battery-powered lantern