Search and Rescue has lost a tireless friend and teacher. Even while fighting cancer, Cindy still gave of herself to teach and certify SAR handlers and their dogs.
One of the things that made Cindy unique in the SAR world was her pursuit of better training methods and her willingness to share that knowledge with others. Cindy made a particular mark in Arizona. She organized state conferences and seminars, She assisted anyone who sought her help. In short, SAR and her dogs were her passion. She was an instructor and evaluator in SDONA, Warby Working Dogs and NASAR.
Cindy trained and certified 9 dogs – all Golden Retrievers. She started her SAR career with Yavapai County’s Sheriffs SAR unit and joined Coconino County SAR K9 team in 2009 when she moved to Flagstaff. She performed many searches in the Grand Canyon for the NPS and cases for the State of Arizona, and other states as well as for the FBI. She had numerous documented live, HRD and evidence finds in hundreds of missions over her career.
It is difficult to fully communicate the treasure that Cindy was for SAR. She gave of herself without need of acclaim. She brought a passion to SAR. Cindy was the model for the true SAR volunteer!
Rest in Peace Dear Friend.
One of the things that made Cindy unique in the SAR world was her pursuit of better training methods and her willingness to share that knowledge with others. Cindy made a particular mark in Arizona. She organized state conferences and seminars, She assisted anyone who sought her help. In short, SAR and her dogs were her passion. She was an instructor and evaluator in SDONA, Warby Working Dogs and NASAR.
Cindy trained and certified 9 dogs – all Golden Retrievers. She started her SAR career with Yavapai County’s Sheriffs SAR unit and joined Coconino County SAR K9 team in 2009 when she moved to Flagstaff. She performed many searches in the Grand Canyon for the NPS and cases for the State of Arizona, and other states as well as for the FBI. She had numerous documented live, HRD and evidence finds in hundreds of missions over her career.
It is difficult to fully communicate the treasure that Cindy was for SAR. She gave of herself without need of acclaim. She brought a passion to SAR. Cindy was the model for the true SAR volunteer!
Rest in Peace Dear Friend.
Do you have a favorite memory or experience with Cindy that you would like to share? Please tell us about it and we will post it here on her tribute page.
Memories of Cindy
- "My favorite memory of Cindy is her passion for air scent training. Her eyes lighting up over a canine at work. I will always remember her "passion". Thank you Cindy for your love of K9s and your softness for handlers." K3
- "Her commitment and passion for the basics and foundation really has stuck with me. I knew her for 3 days and within those 3 days she has made a lifetime impression on how my dog and I work and train. Her willingness to share her knowledge was a great experience. She will be kissed within the community." Al Thielemann
- "Training with her in Flagstaff. Dedicated dog SAR person. We had talks in the car when I picked her up from the airport. Passion for life. Caring for family. She will be truly missed." Carmen Davenport
- "I DON'T KNOW WHERE TO BEGIN! So, I'll start at the beginning... I met Cindy over six years ago. I was on my own as a K9 team with no one to train with, especially advanced K9 SAR training! I knew of Coconino Cnty SAR and investigated till I found Cindy McArthur's name and called her! She was gracious enough to meet with me and my K9 with a couple of her friends. I was so very nervous but I knew I needed to find some one to help me grow. Cindy helped me grow immensely! She took me under her wing and through the years we trained together as much as possible. When I got my second SAR puppy, Cindy helped me start her and she watched this pup grow into an awesome SAR dog! When I got my third SAR puppy, Cindy was too sick to help me start her, but I was blessed the two times she felt well enough to meet me and give me great pointers! Cindy, I can not thank you enough for giving me that chance of connecting with me some 6 ears ago. I miss you greatly. I hope to continue challenging myself as you did. I think of you every time I'm training with my three Dragons, Cindy. Thank you for being a SAR friend and personal friend." - Debra Jones
- As neighbors of her mom in Phoenix, we miss seeing Cindy on occasion and watching her "do her thing" so passionately and professionally out in the yard with such smart and beautiful dogs. She gave us an eye into the oft unseen heroes!! - The Carters
