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Volunteer with MARK9

MARK9 is an all-volunteer Search and Rescue team that operates in the DFW metroplex.  As an all-volunteer team we are always looking for new recruits to join the team.  

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No previous Search and Rescue experience is needed to join MARK9 - the only requirements are hard work and dedication.  MARK9 will assist you with all of the required training necessary to become a member of the team.

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MARK9 is currently recruiting for the following Field and Non-Field Operations Positions:

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Field Operations Positions:

K9 Flanker

K9 Handler (Click Here for additional information)

Command Post Operator

Boat Operator

 

Non-Field Operations Positions:

Secretary

Public Relations

Fund Raising

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Not ready to join, but just want to meet the dogs?  MARK9 is always in need of new individuals to "get lost" during training.  It only takes a few hours and you will have the chance to meet the dogs and see them work while they come find you.

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Ready to join us at a future training, Contact Us now!

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  • What are the minumum requirements to join MARK9?
    You must be at least 18 years of age, and be able to pass a criminal background check.
  • Can I join MARK9 without a dog?
    Yes! There is no requirment to be a K9 Handler in order to join MARK9. There are plenty of positions other than K9 Handler that MARK9 is in need of volunteers to fill.
  • How much does it costs to join MARK9?
    MARK9 currently has a membership costs of $60 per quarter. While considering costs, it's important to consider the other cost that you will incur when joining a Search and Rescue team. An example, but not comphrensive list is below. Typically you can expect to spend $1,000 to $2,000 during your first year of membership with the team. If you decide to purchase a Field Trial/Working line puppy for SAR, you can expect to spend $1,000 to $3,000 when purchasing from a reputable breeder. Gas for Automobile Uniform GPS Dog Dog Transportation Gear Dog Toy/Rewards Dog Insurance Dog Vest Helmet Flashlights Compass HikingBoots
  • Will I become famous and be on the local/national news?
    SAR work is not about noteriety, it's about service. Most of the searches that we particpate in are never covered by an news agency at either the national or local level. MARK9s job is to assist law enforcement, so once a find is made we exit the scene as soon as possible to allow them to do their job. Our "recognition" is in knowing that we have faithfully executed our service to the community in which we are operating.
  • When does MARK9 conduct training and searches?
    Searches can happen anytime of the day and they are impossible to predict. MARK9 has conducted searches during normal business hours, holidays, weekends, late at night, and early in the morning. Although some searches are scheduled ahead of time, the majority of our searches are unplanned and require an immediate response from team members. MARK9 doesnt have any "off days" and we are prepared to respond to law enforcment 24/7. "Always Ready, Ever Able" Team trainings are generally held on Friday evenings or Sunday mornings/afternoons.
  • Where does MARK9 conduct training and searches?
    All over the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex. Occasionally we will conduct searches outside of DFW at the request of law enforcement.
  • Do I need to be physically fit to join MARK9?
    The only positions that need to meet physical fitness requirements are K9 Handlers and Flankers. Many of our searches are through thick woods, in deep creeks, overy hilly terrain, etc. Handlers and Flankers must also be able to operate during the heat of summer, cold of winter, and in rain and storms. Due to the nature of our searches a physical fitness test will be administered to ensure you are capable of particpating in our searches. All positions outside of Handlers and Flankers are not subject to physcial fitness requirements.
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