Understanding K9 Search And Rescue Training

By Donna Schmidt


When it comes to training dogs, it can often be a difficult process. As such, the earlier one starts training a puppy basic commands the better. When it comes to K9 search and rescue training, lessons need start as early as possible. Although, it should be noted that a dog can not be certified in search and rescue operations until having reached adulthood.

In the cases of using the training with family pets, the animal is taught how to locate an owner or family members. In addition, the pet can be taught how to alert others if an emergency is in progress. As such, many pets having gone through this training have saved a number of lives over time.

While there are many courses, some are better than others. As such, when looking for a course in the local area, it is often suggested than individuals read a variety of reviews before selecting a trainer or program. In most cases, these course are going to run over a couple weeks and cost four to five hundred dollars on average in the United States.

For those working with first responders, these life saving K9s often work in a variety of different areas. For example, there are many who work to locate individuals in trouble in fires, floods, mountainous terrain and man-made attacks. In many cases, the animal can locate anyone trapped in these circumstances which often results in many lives being saved.

For a dog to become a SAR dog, the animal and handler must go through a number of rigorous training exercises. These exercises work to put their determination, stamina, agility and intelligence to a test to see if the animal has the potential to work in such capacity. After which, once the dog reaches adulthood, and passes an associated test, the animal can become licensed to provide SAR services.

Another difference is that professionally trained K9s can work to locate and provide assistance on a moment's notice. While, those trained to work with first responders are taught how to alert and lead individuals away from dangerous situations. As such, owners and handlers must also learn these techniques in order to understand when a dog alerts one that danger is present.

As a dog has a strong sense of smell, there are three types of scenting dogs working in search and rescue operations. These are, ground disturbance, air-scenting and ground disturbance. While some dogs are trained in all areas, there are also some whom are only trained in one specific area as related to scent. For example, while a dog may be trained to sniff out bombs or drugs, others may only be trained in scenting for a specific smell based on clothing or other items.

Using these well developed scenting styles, the dogs are taught to use their noses to locate individuals in a variety of situations ranging from crime scenes and floods to earthquakes and airline crashes. As such, dogs need to be fully grown before obtaining certification. After which, most can excel in these and other search and rescue missions.




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