Workshop Overview
This workshop is designed to teach handlers how to utilize canines to detect buried targets, such as contraband, human remains, or other objects. It is ideal for law enforcement, military personnel, search and rescue teams, or any professional needing to train canines for specialized odor detection in complex, often challenging environments. The workshop covers odor theory, canine training techniques, and practical exercises focused on odor identification, target detection, and working in various terrains.
Module 1: Introduction to Canine Odor Detection
– Objective: Understand the principles of canine olfaction and odor detection.
– Topics Covered:
– Soil Types and Molecule Movements
– Odor profiles and its movement through the subsurface
– Factors affecting odor
– Principles of the Three-legged Stool and the Detection Communication Chain
Module 2: Training Foundations for Buried Target Detection
– Objective: Build a strong foundation in teaching a canine to detect and indicate buried targets.
– Topics Covered:
Strategies to Train a Canine to Detect Buried Target
– Establishing odor profiles and introducing buried targets
– Reinforcement techniques to condition target indication
– Incrementally increasing the complexity of odor detection
– – Hands-on: Basic training exercises with an emphasis on odor recognition.
Module 3: Intermediate Buried Target Search Protocols
– Objective: Apply training to more complex, real-world detection situations.
– Topics Covered:
– Utilization of “PLUGS” in training protocols
– How to make “PLUGS” for use in canine training
– Hands-on: Introduce canines to odor specific “PLUGS” initial imprinting and outside environments exercises.
Module 4: Advanced Techniques
Objective: Liquid Target Odor Delivery.
– Topics Covered:
– Utilization of the Liquid Target Odor Delivery protocols
– How to make Liquid Target Odor Delivery training aids
– Hands-on: Introduce canines to odor specific Liquid Target Odor Delivery initial imprinting and outside environments exercises.
