What Services and Qualifications Does SARDOM's K9 Team Provide?

Updated

SARDOM (Search and Rescue Dogs of Maryland) is an all-volunteer, non-profit search and rescue organization that uses air-scenting dogs to help locate missing persons. Its K9 teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to law enforcement, fire/rescue, or any official agency charged with the location and rescue or recovery of missing persons. If you want the full details on what the dogs are trained and certified to do, the organization's "Services & Qualifications" page is the place to look.

What SARDOM's K9 teams do

SARDOM's core capability is air-scenting search work. Air-scenting dogs work off the scent carried in the air rather than tracking a specific ground trail, which makes them useful for locating missing persons across open or mixed terrain.

The organization's stated mission covers three related tasks:

  • Location of missing persons
  • Rescue of missing persons
  • Recovery of missing persons

SARDOM operates around the clock. Its 24-hour toll-free emergency line (1-866-930-4680) is intended for official agency use to request its services, not for general public inquiries.

Who can request the K9 teams

SARDOM's services are requested by official agencies, not by individuals. According to the site, the requesting agency should be prepared to provide:

Information requested Why it helps
Contact info for point(s) of contact at agency HQ and on scene Keeps coordination direct during an active search
Location of the search (actual street address) Lets SARDOM determine the route to the site
Brief description of subject(s) and situation Helps teams prepare for the specific search
Size of the primary search area Informs how resources are assigned
Number of days the search has been in progress Gives context on scent conditions and urgency

Where qualifications are documented

The site's navigation includes a dedicated "Services & Qualifications" page, which is where the organization documents the specific services its K9 teams provide and the qualifications behind them. Because SARDOM is an all-volunteer organization, its K9 handlers, support staff, officers, and directors all serve without pay.

If you need the precise certification standards, training requirements, or the exact list of services the dogs are qualified for, that page is the authoritative source — the home page only summarizes the organization's mission and how to request help.

How the organization is supported

SARDOM is supported wholly by public generosity. With no paid employees, donations go toward operations and training efforts. The site provides a "Donate Now" link and a "Funding & Sponsors" page for those who want to contribute.

Quick reference

  • What it is: All-volunteer, non-profit search and rescue organization using air-scenting dogs
  • Who it serves: Law enforcement, fire/rescue, and official agencies
  • Availability: 24/7
  • Emergency contact: 1-866-930-4680 (official agency use)
  • Details on services and qualifications: "Services & Qualifications" page on sardom.org
  • How to help: Volunteer positions page, or donate via the site's Donate Now link