History
The Ohio Federation of K9 Search Teams, Inc. developed from a shared interest on the part of Ohio search dog handlers to standardize the requirements for certification. Founded by eight search dog groups and independent handlers, the Federation developed a constitution, bylaws, evaluation standards/criteria, a code of ethics and committee structure.
Search Dog Conference
The Federations first Search Dog Conference with the Ohio EMA was held in the fall of 1996. These events have included: Internationally known search dog handlers, forensic anthropologists, and other well known instructors who have spoken at the conferences, directed actual field teaching, and/or served as evaluators for the members.
Meetings
The Federation currently holds quarterly business meetings. Interested non-member K9 search teams and individuals are invited to attend, as well as emergency and/or law enforcement agencies. Meeting dates, locations and time can be found on our online events calendar.
Evaluations
The Federation conducts the following tests for certification: Obedience Control, Air Scent, Article Search, Tracking, Trailing, Cadaver Search, and Water Search. General guidelines, handler standards & prerequisites, as well as the format for actual evaluations can be downloaded for review in the standards area. Evaluations are scheduled well in advance. Testing dates, locations and time can be found on our online calendar. Evaluations are open only to Federation members.
Dues
Current annual dues for Federation membership are $100.00 per team (covers all team members) or $25.00 for an individual membership. To find out more about becoming a member of the Ohio Federation of K9 Search Teams please feel free to contact us.
