What we’re about
Gallatin County Sheriff's Search & Rescue Dog Team is a volunteer organization dedicated to providing certified search dogs in Gallatin County and surrounding counties/states. Our teams work in all four seasons, assisting on searches for lost recreators, overdue hunters, missing children or individuals with dementia, autism, or other cognitive issues, drowning victims, avalanche victims, and more.
It's important for search dogs to find a wide variety of "lost people" in order to keep their skills in tip top condition – that's where you come in!
As a training volunteer, you might...
- Pretend to be lost, “hiding” in the woods for our air scent dogs to find you. Bring a chair, book, and thermos of tea, then enjoy the solitude!
- Set a track for our tracking dogs to follow, and then find you at the end. This can be great backcountry navigation practice!
- Help set up “blind” training problems to help test our handers’ skills – get creative!
- And... you will always get to play with dogs to reward them for a job well done!!
How it works:
- Training days are typically 9a - 4p, depending on the season, weather, and training location. We request that volunteers commit to either a half or full day, but we can be super flexible!
- Training locations vary based on season and weather as well. Example training locations include Crosscut Mountain Sports Center (summer) or Headwaters State Park (Spring/Fall/Winter) – typically, a short drive from Bozeman.
If you have questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to Alyssa at [email protected]
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Get Lost for SAR Dogs – BeartrapTrapper Springs Campground, Manhattan, MT
Come "Get Lost" for wilderness search dogs! Pretend to be a lost hiker, play with the dogs who find you, and learn more about how the Gallatin County Sheriff's Search & Rescue dogs work to find missing people.
This event is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for fun times and new adventures in the backcountry. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or new in town, this experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with your community, meet like-minded individuals, and enjoy the great outdoors. You do not need any specific level of fitness or outdoor ability to participate.
This training is kid friendly, but please let Alyssa know if you plan to bring anyone under age 15.
More details:
- Please wear weather appropriate clothing for fall in the mountains – dress slightly warmer than you would for a hike, because you'll be spending some time sitting. A raincoat or other waterproof layer is always a good idea even if rain isn't in the forecast. Don't forget snacks, water, and sunscreen!
- We will likely have you setting tracks for our tracking/trailing dogs. You can expect to walk about half a mile, then find a comfortable spot to sit and wait for the dog to find you. After you're found we may ask you to wait for another dog, or you may have the opportunity to walk along with a handler to see a dog work.
- Please download the free Caltopo app on your phone before you head out to meet us. It's available for iOS and Android and is really handy in helping you know where to go.
- Please leave your dog at home, for our safety and theirs!
If you have any questions, please call/text Alyssa at (303) 884-2105
