Search and rescue dogs perform extraordinary work under physically and psychologically demanding conditions, requiring specialist welfare management to prevent burnout and injury.
Search and rescue dogs face a unique welfare challenge: they are highly motivated to work and demonstrate behavioural indicators of positive engagement with their role, but the physical and psychological toll of repeated disaster work accumulates. Handlers must balance the dog's eagerness to work against the need for rest and recovery. Trauma responses in SAR dogs — particularly those that work mass fatality events — require recognition and management. The welfare of working dogs is inseparable from handler education and organisational policy.