ABOUT SEARCH DOGS

	What type of dogs do we use for K-9 SAR? K-9's used for SAR need to have the physical ability and innate DRIVE to do the work.  Due to the wilderness areas common to Minnesota searches, we recommend using a dog of working, sporting or herding breed types.  Purebreds are not required.
	What is the difference between SAR dogs and Police dogs? The biggest difference is that SAR dogs specialize - they are not cross-trained for non-human scent work.  They search only for human scent, whether alive or deceased.  They are also not trained for apprehension work.
	How long does it take to train a K-9 for SAR? It takes approximately 18 to 24 months to become mission-ready with a K-9.  Much of this time is actually handler adjustment, as the dogs work scent naturally.

ABOUT SEARCH AND RESCUE

	When should a K-9 SAR unit be called in? As soon as someone is missing, a K-9 SAR unit should be called in.  We are happy to get to a search and find out the subject has already been located rather than called in for the recovery days later.
	Can you search at night? CLSAR trains in almost all conditions, as searches rarely happen on pleasant days.  We train to search at night, and most times, the scent conditions are usually better at night.
	How much does CLSAR charge for their services? We do not charge for our services.  All members are volunteers, our expenses usually come out of the family budget, and often from private and corporate donations to our unit.

ABOUT CENTRAL LAKES SEARCH AND RESCUE

	How can I join? Click on the "Feedback" button on the top of the page where you can send us a request for more information.
	How can I help CLSAR? Volunteer to hide for unit trainings or for individual K-9 teams in your area Become a member - you can be of vital assistance to families in crisis Donate, either financially or in equipment and supplies, if you are able.  We rely exclusively on private and corporate donations Arrange for a demonstration or presentation at your local school, church or youth organization.
	Do all members have to own a dog? No - there are support roles that are incredibly important to the entire unit and our search efforts, including communications, logistics, operations and more!
	Tell me more about CLSAR: Central Lakes was started in 1998 by Carla Leehy and Pat Schultz.  We were mentored into being by Jim Couch's SAR unit "STAR Dogs" and the beautiful patch we proudly wear was designed by Sherry Wright at the time of our incorporation in 1999.  We are also a founding member of Northern States Search Dog Network, previously known as Minnesota Search Dog Network.