TROTSAR Search & Rescue Mounted Team Inc.

07/16/2026

While vacationing in Iceland, several members of TrotSAR had the opportunity to reconnect with members of an Icelandic mounted search and rescue team that we had crossed trained with over a decade ago. ❤️ 🇮🇸 🐎

07/02/2026

We stand alongside the members of DOGS-East and the entire Virginia Search and Rescue community as we remember a life devoted to service, compassion, and helping others. We extend our deepest sympathies to Sharon's family, friends, teammates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

06/29/2026

This week is going to be a scorcher -- time to remind ourselves of the rules and best practices about riding in hot weather.

06/22/2026

TrotSAR had the opportunity to participate in joint training last week with Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Search and Rescue Team. We are thankful to James River State Park and the DCR SAR Team for hosting us! It was a productive week.

05/28/2026

Excellent advice from our friends Black Diamond Search And Rescue Council. 👍

P-SAR Tip of the Week: Before You Go, Leave a Plan

A simple trip plan can make a big difference if something goes wrong outdoors.

Before you head into the woods, onto the trail, to the river, or out for a quick walk in a remote area, take a minute to tell someone:

Where you are going
Who is with you
When you expect to return
When they should call for help if they do not hear from you

Cell phones are helpful, but they are not a plan. Batteries die, service drops, and small problems can turn serious quickly.

Leaving a plan gives search and rescue teams a starting point and can help us find you faster.

Be prepared. Be informed. Be found.

05/09/2026

A beautiful day for a conditioning ride and trivia challenge.

05/04/2026

Excellent advice from our friends at Black Diamond Search And Rescue Council.

PSAR Tip of the Week: Ticks Are More Than a Nuisance

If you spend time in the woods—training, searching, or just enjoying the outdoors—ticks are a real and growing threat.

Here in Virginia—and across much of the Southeast—we’re seeing a sharp rise in Alpha-gal syndrome, Lyme disease, and other tick-borne illnesses.

📍 This isn’t theoretical—it’s local.
Areas like Bedford County and Charlotte County, Virginia are recognized as some of the hardest-hit hotspots in the nation for Alpha-gal.

⚠️ Know the Risks

* Alpha-gal: Allergic reaction to red meat and mammal products
* Lyme disease: Fatigue, joint pain, neurological complications
* Early symptoms are often mild—don’t ignore them

🧬 What’s Causing It?

* Alpha-gal is most strongly linked to bites from the Lone Star tick, which is widespread in Virginia
* Emerging research suggests chigger bites may also play a role in some cases, but this is still being studied

🛡️ Protect Yourself

* Treat clothing and gear with permethrin
* Use EPA-approved repellent
* Wear long sleeves, wear gaiters
* Conduct thorough tick checks after every task / mission
* Shower after field time

🚨 Bottom Line

Whether it’s ticks—or possibly chiggers—the risk is real.
A preventable bite can take you out of the field.

04/25/2026

TrotSAR team members participated in a mock search and rescue exercise for the UMBC Search Management Class today in MD.

03/27/2026

Last chance to register for the two day classes still available!

The 2026 Virginia Search and Rescue Conference will look a little different this year, and we’re excited to share what’s new. It will be on April 16-19 at the Holiday Lake 4H camp. Due to winter weather cancelling one of our Winter Academy weekends, we will be hosting the second weekend of the W...

03/26/2026

Our SAR colleague Dr. Sally Dickinson is in a contest for most-viewed YouTube video. She's an amazing dog handler, teacher and mentor in the Virginia SAR community. Please watch this video!

Dr. Sally Dickinson: “The dogs who find us: Preparing partners, not tools"What's your expertise? How well can you explain it to people outside of your field?...