Disaster canines are trained to locate live victims and indicate the position where the strongest scent is found with a focused bark alert. Because of their light weight and agility canines may be asked to search areas that are unsafe or simply not big enough for a human to enter. Once an alert has been given search cameras and electronic listening devices can be used to further pinpoint the location and position of these people.

Another advantage the dog has over technology is that once a victim has been identified rescue specialists can initiate extrication and the dogs can continue to work the remaining area. A dog’s nose will still work whether a jack hammer is next to a second victim or 100’ away. Clearing the area with a canine allows crews to concentrate their efforts on victims that are already identified. This allows a better and safer utilization of personnel and resources.

ASD has been deployed when ever called upon to do so. Examples have included:
Local searches for Valley residents
World Trade Center, New York
The Winter Olympics, Salt Lake City
Houston Flooding
Dallas Fort Worth tornado
Hurricane Katrina,
Hurricane Rita
Hurricane Gustav
Hurricane Ike