CHRISTINA EICHELKRAUT / PVT Rocky, a 10-month-old wolf-hybrid, and Nye County Search and Rescue Traning Coordinator Albert Bass were guest speakers at the monthly Pahrump Valley Chamber of Commerce Business to Business Luncheon last Monday. Advertisement

The attendees at the Pahrump Valley Chamber of Commerce Business to Business Luncheon were introduced to Nye County Search and Rescue team's newest member, Rocky, Monday afternoon.

The 10-month-old wolf-hybrid took a dip in the pond outside before being a guest speaker of sorts at the luncheon along with Albert Bass, training coordinator for the volunteer organization.

Like much of the community, many Chamber members weren't familiar with SAR, which is an all-volunteer organization that does exactly what it sounds like: should someone get lost and possibly be injured, they can be dispatched by the Nye County Sheriff's Office to find the person.

Technically, SAR is a non-profit corporation, and as such the dedicated volunteers pay for their equipment (search and rescue kits and various certification training) out of their own pockets.

Rocky is SAR's first search and rescue dog and will be training with a Henderson dog, Luck, next week.

Search dogs can be trained in several ways, from scent tracking to trail tracking, and Bass said some time is still needed to see just what kind of dog Rocky will turn out to be.

"With all dogs you have to find out what their interests are and what they want to do," Bass said. "Just like your kids, you may want them to be a doctor or a lawyer, but they might end up being something else."

In addition to adding search dogs to its ranks, SAR is working on making a number of other changes as well, including increasing its training and helping members get certified in accordance with National Association for Search and Rescue standards.

Bass said the organization is also working on adding equestrian and all-terrain vehicle divisions since often areas to be searched are not accessible on foot or by car.

The team is also looking to foster a relationship with surrounding areas and agencies to help widen the range where they can be called to search and is eagerly preparing to make a strong showing at a variety of community events.

Potential volunteers or even just curious visitors are always welcome to attend SAR's meetings the first and third Thursday of every month at the SAR building located behind the fire station on Highway 160 just past Basin Avenue.

Should the probationary period be completed, the new member is then sworn in by the sheriff's office.

For more information, contact Commander Pat Clow at 775-513-6831.