Join MSD

Service dogs and handlers on a sunny field, showcasing teamwork and companionship.

Ready to make a difference?

Midwest Search Dogs (MSD) is a non-profit organization comprised of K-9 / Handler Teams and support personnel such as communication specialists, spotters, medical personnel, and other irreplaceable pieces roboforex mobile trader of this team. MSD currently trains for the rescue and recovery of missing persons. Our members are not paid for their service. In fact, this volunteer service can be a very expensive endeavor. Still, the team members gladly give their time, training, and dogs as a service to our local, state, and national community as may be requested.

MSD is always looking for new members

K-9 handlers and other service-minded persons, who are truly interested in pursuing search and rescue work. You will be looked upon to help wherever you have skills that come in handy. Whether it be fundraising, training, public relations, or some of everything, we are always looking for people that are versatile and will step up no matter the endeavor or event. Basically, we are looking for motivated, service-minded individuals that aren’t afraid to train in sun or the worst storms, who are willing to sacrifice their free time, who understand the expense and the commitment, but are still there every week. Every time the call goes out whether it’s training or someone that needs our help, we can count on You.

Energetic Border Collie playing in an outdoor field during sunset, showcasing vibrant colors.

Requirements

We train every Tuesday night from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and every other Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Members should plan on attending the entire session regardless of the weather. We require 75% attendance per quarter to be in good standing. Optional training is often available many times between scheduled trainings.

You will need to submit a Limited Criminal History Check with your application.

Each team member is required to obtain a Ground Search Certification, regardless if you are a K9 handler or not with-in 2 years of your application date (app date). Other required certifications include:

  • ‍CPR/First Aid –As soon as possible
  • K9 First Aid –with-in 1 year of app date
  • Camp Atterbury Course or equivalent –1 class per calendar year
  • SAR Seminar or Conference –1 attended per calendar year

We only train our K9s with positive reinforcement training techniques. No choke chains, prong/pinch collars, and no electronic collars are allowed at trainings. You are not immediately disqualified from visiting the team if you currently use this equipment. Please feel free to contact us with further questions regarding this matter.

You will need the outdoor equipment to train year round, and will need additional equipment when you become mission-ready.

You will need the financial backing to obtain the required equipment for your SAR ready pack. Enough for travel expenses to and from certification locations and certifier fees. Enough for seminars, conferences, classes, deployment, and emergencies that come from this line of work.

You will need the job flexibility to go on missions and attend specialized trainings.

You have to be dedicated to search and rescue work due to the vast number of hours required. However, it is rewarding work, which allows you to find out a great deal about yourself and your dog. We have high standards because Search and Rescue is NOT about giving your dog a job. It is NOT about putting a search vest on your K9 or making it on the news. It is NOT a hobby. It is a lifestyle. It is about bringing closure to families in times of need. It is about being highly trained as a SAR personnel to assist in the search and rescue or recovery of lost and missing persons. You may wish to attend one of our Sunday trainings, to see firsthand the work involved and to allow us to answer your questions. We would be delighted to have you out!

Help MSD

Donations keep the dogs and searchers warm, dry and fed. Help us out, etc etc etc

Wish list

  • Gas Cards
  • Gift cards to Office Supply Store (misc. supplies)
  • Batteries – AA and AAA
  • Radios with GPS – Garmin Rinos $498.00 each
  • Insurance Cost – Annual Workmen’s Comp & Liability $1,000
  • New Laptop $1,100.00
  • Cleaning Supplies
  • Safety helmets $59.95 each
  • Small rope bags $39.95 each
  • Protective safety coats “waterproof” $98.00 each
  • Printer/Scanner $250.00 – $400.00
  • Printer Paper $6.00 per ream
  • Waterproof Waders $130.00 each
  • Electric dog fence
  • Dog fence wire, dog doors, and dog accessories
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