K9Search.net

Class on Scent and Scent Transport Considerations in the Training and Deployment of Search Dogs

Scent and Scent Transport Considerations in the Training and Deployment of Search Dogs

Instructor: Tom Osterkamp.

 

Introduction

Why do we need to understand scent, how it moves, and how dogs search for and detect it?

 

Intensity Work for Area Search Dogs

Intensity Work for Area Search Dogs

Tom Osterkamp, CSARA

January 2012

             In 2009, I attended an INBTI seminar that taught the Kocher method of using intensity trails to increase the drive and focus of trailing dogs ( see, How to train a police bloodhound, by Kevin and Robin Kocher, INBTI, www.bloodhoundtraining.com) . Subsequently, it became clear that area search dogs could also benefit from intensity work so I initiated a pilot program to expose our area search dogs to this method of training.

Scent Articles

Scent Articles

Tom Osterkamp

July 2009

Introduction

            A principle of crime scene investigation is that the criminal always leaves something behind at the scene. This may include fingerprints, DNA, hairs, fibers etc. Something else is always left but rarely considered—human scent—sometimes termed “the forgotten” evidence since we cannot see, touch, taste, or smell it ourselves. However, dogs, with their incredible sense of smell, can detect it.

Canine Search and Rescue Association (CSARA)

This post contains information about CSARA and Tom Osterkamp.

 

Scent and Scent Transport Considerations for K9 Water Searches

 

    This is a summary of a paper that has been accepted for publication in the Journal of Forensic Sciences for publication in the September 2011 issue. The paper reviews the nature of scent bearing material associated with a submerged decomposing human body, potential scent transport processes from the body to the atmosphere, and applications to the training and deployment of search dogs.   

 

The electronic nose is a reality

An “electronic nose” called LABRADOR has been developed. The purpose of the device is to detect volatile organic compounds at the ground surface emanating from decomposing bodies in clandestine graves or in disaster conditions; a job currently done by cadaver/HRD dogs. However, the device has applications involving almost anything a dog can do.

 

The electronic dog

Negative publicity about scent lineups in the USA has highlighted weaknesses in training and execution. However, the method is accepted in Europe and other areas where both training and its application are conducted according to strict protocols. Discussions about scent lineups may become obsolete with advances in research on the characteristics of human scent and its identification. The ultimate goal is to develop an electronic nose (for an electronic dog?) that could replace search dogs in detecting human scent in some situations.

Effects of obesity in dogs

The purpose of this note is to bring attention to the scientifically established fact that restricting caloric intake in dogs improves their health and increases their longevity.

Designing a K9 search Unit

Over the past 14 years, I have had the opportunity to travel the western US, Canada, and Alaska visiting and training with more than a dozen K9 SAR Units. These units seem to have a lot of personnel difficulties that could be partially avoided by careful design of the units.

 

Basic rules for search dog training

Training a search dog requires a philosophy of training that can be formulated into a set of rules. These rules then form the foundation for everyday training. If we are insistent, consistent, and persistent in applying these rules, then the dog comes to know what to expect from us and training proceeds at a smoother pace.