Louth Search Dogs was formed to provide a free, voluntary, passive searching service to the community of Lincolnshire, to back up the Police when searching for missing persons. TRAINING
The time it takes to train a team varies according to the handler's experience and the dog's willingness to learn, but it is normally around two years. We often have to search along busy roads or in fields of stoc
k and a search can go on all day, often over rough terrain. Most of all, the dogs must be highly motivated to get their reward. We have regular training sessions throughout Lincolnshire and these are on a variety of terrain, i.e. buildings, rubble, woodland, open areas, etc. All members have to be prepared to go 'missing' for each other and this can be quite uncomfortable in the middle of winter. Friends can also sometimes be coerced into this role! Each search is tackled differently, depending on a number of circumstances;
Safety
Terrain
Weather conditions
Number of dogs and handlers available
Time of day or night
Wind speed and direction
To the dogs it is just a game of hide and seek. If they are trained correctly they soon learn that if they locate human scent they will get their reward. Dogs are naturally inquisitive and have approximately 120 million more scent cells in their noses than we mere humans, therefore the job is very easy for them. Within a short period of time the dogs come to know when they get to a training session and can't wait to get started. Our dogs are taught a bark indication which is sometimes the most difficult part of the training, although at home they don't seem to have this problem They soon learn to locate victims but must also be taught to stay with them and bark to lead the handler in. it is very important in the initial stages of training to have a very experienced "victim" to hide for your dog. "Victims" can make or break your dog, so this is the first thing we are taught as new members. We are always looking for new people and their dogs to train as Search Dog Teams. Below is a brief resume of the basic criteria required. Handlers:
You will need the time and commitment to train both yourself and your dog for 18 months to 2 years to reach operational standard. As we train in locations all over Lincolnshire you must be prepared to travel all year round and train in all weather conditions. A reasonable level of fitness is required. You will also be expected to act as a "Missing Person". Dogs:
Whilst we prefer pups/young dogs from working breeds e.g.:Collies, Labradors etc.; we will consider cross breeds and slightly older dogs. The dog must have a sound temperament and must not show any signs of aggression, particularly to people. If you think you and your dog may be suitable, please get in touch through the e-mail address on our "Contact Us" page. Dogsbodies:
If you don't have a dog you could still help us. "Dogsbodies" act as missing persons during training & on exercises. You will need to be comfortable around dogs & be prepared to be prepared to "get lost" in sometimes unfavourable conditions & places. A good sense of humour is essential!!
