Partners
NEK9 collaborates with others
NEK9 must be activated for searches by the Agency Having Jurisdiction for a search.
Join
NEK9 is a volunteer organization
NEK9 searches for both live and deceased subjects; therefore, testing for certification simulates an actual search.
Outreach
NEK9 has educational programs
Our presenters can tailor the presentation to children and adults at all levels of experience and understanding.
40+ Years Of Experience
About NEK9
Give A Helping Hand
NEK9 is an air scent K9 team with over 37 years of search experience. At most search calls, we provide 5-10 K9 teams with field assistants/medical support from the Upper Valley Wilderness Response Team (UVWRT).
To provide, without cost, trained search and rescue personnel and K9s to the law enforcement agencies of Vermont and New Hampshire to assist in their efforts to locate lost and missing persons.
In 1981, Richard Dennis moved to north central MA from NY. He had been a K9 handler with the Adirondack Rescue Dog Association who certified with the American Rescue Dog Association (ARDA). After purchasing a German Shepherd puppy from Donna Larson, he inquired about starting an air scent team in the area. After some presentations and through word of mouth NEK9 was formed….read more.
NEK9 is an airscent K9 team with over 37 years of search experience. At most search calls, we provide 5-10 K9 teams with field assistants/medical support from the Upper Valley Wilderness Response Team (UVWRT)….read more.
20+
Volunteers
14
Dogs
30+
Annual Searches
2
States
New England K9 Search & Rescue
Certification Standards
Although NEK9 is a volunteer organization, the nature of this work requires a professional level of performance. NEK9 places great emphasis on rigorous training and certification which meets, or in most cases, exceeds the industry standard. Trustworthy teams are the result of the quality of the partnership between the canine and handler, not simply an accumulation of skills.
How To Join
Application Process: Training and certifying with your canine represents a significant commitment in time and energy by the entire team. NEK9 is a small, select, skilled and dedicated team that places tremendous responsibility on each individual for the success of the whole. Therefore, applicants are accepted with great care.
For The General Public
We offer an entertaining and educational presentation and live demonstration of Airscent Search Dogs to general audiences. Whether you are a charitable or business organization or a senior center, the pictures, search stories and of course the dogs make a great 45 – 60 minute program. There is no charge (though a donation of any amount is most appreciated).