Search & Rescue Dogs

Hi, as the owner of a portuguese water dog I am interested in learning more about training a dog to indicate human remains under water. Has anyone in the UK trained a dog in this specialism? I have gone through the S & R books I have and while there are odd chapters devoted to this area I would prefer to hear from anyone who has trained a dog and can advise on common mistakes. I am hopeful of access to a local dive team and we have boats in our Search team but before starting would like to do my prepartion first. Many thanks Deborah (Norfolk)

Hi Deborah

I believe members of CANTECH have trainned in this discapline.

Maybe the CANTECH member (sorry forget his username) on here can get you some info?

Found this link that might be of use!?

http://www.cee.mtu.edu/~hssantef/sar/others/Hardy/TrainWSDT.html

Thanks Daryl, great article and may be someone will pass on my enquiry to the cantec member. Deborah

Hi Debs,

The main problem with water training is having to find a diver that will hide, a boat and a suitable training venue.... Thats not including the H&S issues regarding working near/on water.

You can however train for shore searches quite easily as long as you have someone to hide in the rushes.

Pete.

Hi Deb's

We were recommended to speak to the RNLI/Coast guards to do in-shore rescue type search work. Don't know if that helps?

If we get the search exercise organised, it'll be a weekend with a BBQ and probably Beers, I'll PM you if your interested.

Prob be the end of summer

Hi, thanks and yes I would be interested. I am attending the water search course in NI in June and have met up with cantech to pick their brains too. Regards D.