Dear Applicant:

This Application Package contains several documents for you to complete. Please have all documents and copies submitted 90 days prior to the evaluation. The date of the next evaluation is: ______, applications must be post-marked by: ______to be considered for certification.

Handler requirements are as follows:

  • Must be 18 years or older at the date of evaluation
  • Completed Basic First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation from Red Cross, National Safety Council or American Heart Association guidelines for emergency responders
  • Complete National Incident Management Systems courses – 100, 200, 700 and 800
  • Complete Blood Borne Pathogens using either Red Cross, National Safety Council or American Heart Association guidelines for emergency responders
  • Complete Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) or Fundamentals of Search and Rescue (FUNSAR) or equivalent as specified in KRS Chapter 39F

Canine requirements are as follows:

  • Dog must be 1 year of age at the date of evaluation
  • Must have a Certificate of Veterinary Health completed by veterinarian within 120 days of the date of evaluation
  • Rabies Vaccination – 1-year or 3-year Rabies vaccination (and license) consistent with the County of Residence

All documents and the completed application should be returned to: ______, Frankfort, KY 40601.

The completed application must be postmarked on or before 90 days prior to the date of evaluation. Your application will be reviewed and either accepted, declined or returned for further information within 30 days. If your application is returned, you will have 30 days to provide the requested information. If your application is declined, you will have 30 days to petition the evaluation committee for reconsideration.

Application Check List

This is a checklist to aid you in completing a successful application. Please make sure all forms are filled out legibly and all copies are legible.

ü / Document / Comments
Search Dog Handler Application
Valid Driver’s license or ID card with photo and birth date
Letter of recommendation from Team Leader, County SAR Coordinator or Area Manager
Copy of GSAR, FUNSAR or equivalent class
Copies of FEMA/DHS mandated NIMS courses for first responders (E.g. 100, 200, 700 and 800 classes)
Copy of First Aid and CPR certification
Copy of Blood Borne Pathogens class
Copy of Rabies Vaccination Certificate for SAR dog
Copy of License Certificate for SAR dog (if applicable)
Completed Certificate of Veterinary Health
Copy of Canine Good Citizen certification or FEMA Non-Aggression Test (not required) / Waives Socialization test