Nationally Recognized Certification

Professional K-9 Certification for Search & Rescue Operations

Get your handler and K-9 team certified with SARCO's rigorous two-phase certification process. We ensure operational readiness in trailing, land cadaver, and water cadaver detection for critical life-saving missions.

500+
Certified Teams
3
Specialized Disciplines
100%
National Recognition
Our Disciplines

Three Critical K-9 Detection Disciplines

SARCO K-9 certification covers three essential search and rescue specialties, ensuring your team is ready for any mission scenario.

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Trailing Detection

Track and locate missing persons through advanced scent discrimination and trailing techniques across varied terrain. Essential for time-critical search operations and lost person recovery missions.

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Land Cadaver Detection

Detect human remains on land surfaces for law enforcement investigations and recovery operations. Critical for criminal investigations, cold cases, and disaster response scenarios.

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Water Cadaver Detection

Locate submerged human remains in water environments for underwater recovery missions. Specialized training for lakes, rivers, and marine search operations requiring boat-based deployment.

Certification Process

Your Path to SARCO K-9 Certification

Our comprehensive two-phase process ensures every certified team meets the highest standards for operational readiness and field performance.

1

Application & Documentation

Before receiving a testing date, your paperwork and training history are thoroughly reviewed by a SARCO evaluator to ensure all requirements are met.

  • National certification in trailing, land cadaver, and water cadaver
  • Complete, up-to-date training records for handler and K-9
  • Current health certificates for both handler and K-9
  • Bloodborne pathogens training certification
  • Crime scene preservation training certification
  • Official SARCO application form completed and signed
⏱ 2-4 Weeks Review Period
2

Testing Day Evaluation

On your scheduled certification date, the evaluator assesses your team's obedience, temperament, technical knowledge, and operational readiness.

  • Lead obedience test demonstrating control and responsiveness
  • Temperament evaluation in varied environments
  • Handler verbal skills: Task-Find-Reward (TFR) protocols
  • Distance from source alert capability assessment
  • Comprehensive gear check for handler and K-9
  • Final operational readiness evaluation
📋 Full Day Field Evaluation
Why Choose SARCO

Why Agencies Choose SARCO K-9 Certification

Trusted by law enforcement and search & rescue organizations nationwide for our rigorous standards and commitment to operational excellence.

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National Recognition

Certification recognized by law enforcement agencies, search and rescue organizations, and emergency management teams across the United States.

Rigorous Standards

Comprehensive evaluation process ensures every certified team meets the highest standards for operational readiness and real-world mission performance.

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Safety Focused

Required bloodborne pathogens and crime scene preservation training protects handlers, support staff, evidence integrity, and the public.

Expert Evaluators

All certifications conducted by experienced K-9 professionals with extensive backgrounds in search and rescue operations and handler training.

Requirements

Certification Requirements Checklist

Ensure your team is ready to be scheduled for certification. All items must be completed before your testing date can be assigned.

National K-9 Certification: Certification from a recognized national organization in trailing, land cadaver, and water cadaver detection.
Complete Training Records: Up-to-date training logs for both K-9 and handler, available for evaluator review and verification.
SARCO Application: Official certification application filled out completely and signed by the handler.
Health Certificates: Current certificates of health for the K-9 and handler from qualified medical professionals.
Bloodborne Pathogens Training: Documented completion of required safety training to protect all personnel.
Crime Scene Preservation Training: Documented completion of crime scene preservation course to maintain evidence integrity.

Ready to Certify Your K-9 Team?

Start your SARCO K-9 certification application today. Our team is ready to guide you through every step of the process and answer any questions you may have.