Membership in MarK9 is open to anyone with an interest in canine search and rescue work. While it is a lot of work, it is also fun. Plus there is satisfaction in knowing you are contributing to the security and safety of our community. Most of our time is spent training. We train both our dogs and ourselves on a weekly basis. All members must be willing to develop skills in a number of areas such as navigation, first aid, search theory, incident command, wilderness survival and many others. In addition, as you progress, there are fitness and competence tests you must pass. If you are a dog handler, all of this is in addition to the care and training of your dog. While search and rescue work is voluntary, it is also a very serious activity. Peoples lives will often depend on our competence and readiness. In addition we place ourselves in situations which can quickly become dangerous if not managed effectively. Accordingly, all MarK9 members must be willing to make a commitment to developing the skills and knowledge required to perform effectively and safely. Thus attendance at 70% of all formal training activities is required and it is expected that members will continuously avail themselves of outside training opportunities to enhance their knowledge and competence in all phases of search and rescue work. MarK9 is a Posse of the Maricopa County Sheriff and, as such, all members must qualify as posse members and must meet the requirements established by the Sheriffs Office. If you think K9 search and rescue might be for you, contact us and arrange to come out and observe one of our training sessions. If you are still interested, the training officer will go over the detailed membership requirements and application process.