Water searches

[Deborah]

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)

[Daryl]

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?

[Daryl]

Found this link that might be of use!?

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

[Deborah]

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

[Pete]

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.

[Mojo]

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

[Deborah]

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.