Do SAR volunteers get paid?
No. SAR workers are all volunteers who spend their own money to train to meet unit and state standards to participate.
Are there State and unit standards?
Yes! Our SAR volunteers must meet the minimums set by the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 118.04.120. Other WCSAR units may require additional requirements.
Can my dog be trained as a SAR working dog?
It depends. We are looking for social, high-to-medium drive working dogs with good environmentals. Be prepared to invest 1-3 years into training a young dog in either HRD, tracking/trailing, or live area search. All K9s must have their AKC Canine Good Citizenship and a current discipline specific National certification to deploy on missions.
I have limitations/mobility issues, but I want to help. Can I still join STS?
You bet! We can always use support volunteers to help with tasks outside of missions.
Does STS look for lost pets?
No. If you have an animal that needs to be rescued, please contact Washington State Animal Response Team (WASART).