Two days of search and rescue training, continuing to strengthen the readiness of volunteers and search dogs for missing person searches in a variety of situations and environments.

During the training, participants developed both the practical and theoretical knowledge required for effective work in real-life search situations. The programme focused on missing person search principles, team coordination, navigation, communication, and responding appropriately in challenging circumstances.

The training programme also included first aid for both people and dogs, safety procedures, and practical scenario exercises designed to prepare teams to respond quickly in situations where every minute matters. Particular attention was also given to search ethics, professional conduct, and the mutual trust between a dog and its handler.

Several professionals from different fields shared their experience and expertise during the training. Marta Gēbele, Head of the Subacute Psychiatry Department at Ģintermuiža Hospital, led an educational session on appropriate conduct and communication in sensitive missing person search situations. The session covered response strategies and communication principles when working with people from at-risk groups, including individuals with mental health conditions, dementia, and autism spectrum disorders. Participants gained valuable insight into possible behavioural patterns, safety considerations, and professional approaches to different search situations.
Veterinarian Kristaps Reķis from Reķu Veterinary Practice shared practical knowledge on providing first aid to dogs and recognising health risks that may arise during search operations.

The training also included representatives of the diving association Mitau Diver, Šota Plijevs and Pāvels Balušs, who shared their experience in safety, coordination, and cooperation during search operations near bodies of water and in challenging terrain. This kind of interdisciplinary cooperation helps strengthen teams’ readiness for a wide range of search scenarios.

SAR Latvija continues to develop the search dog community in Latvia by regularly organising training sessions, exercises, and cooperation activities with professionals from other fields. The organisation’s goal is to ensure an increasingly high level of readiness for missing person searches and to strengthen the volunteer movement in Latvia.

The ORGANIZATION would like to thank all supporters and cooperation partners for their contribution to the training and the development of the organisation. Special thanks to Virbac in Latvia, Armora, Lotos Pharma and Bubeck for their support and contribution to organising the training.


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