ARTICLE SEARCH TEST
This test is designed to test the Search Dogs ability and proficiency in searching a designated area for articles having human scent on them. This would represent a search for discarded evidence or lost items. Evaluators and handlers should review these rules in their entirety. Evaluators will observe the test from outside the search area. The Evaluator will designate the search area.
SEARCH AREA
The area to be searched will be no less than 60 feet by 60 feet. It will be covered by heavy vegetation no less than ten (10) inches high. The search area will be contaminated prior to the test by one or more subjects crossing through the area at least twice with a dog.
SEARCH ARTICLES
Three (3) articles of different composition (metal, wood, paper, etc.) will be thrown at random into the search area. The team to be tested will not view this being done. One (1) article will be of metal composition. The articles to be used will be selected from, but not limited to, the following list:
a.) Plastic credit card e.) Wood handle screwdriver (4"-6")
b.) Paper match book f.) Crumpled cigarette package
c.) Shotgun Shell g.) Empty metal hand-gun
d.) Leather Wallet h.) Empty pop-gun
Articles are to be selected by the Evaluator according to availability.
TIME
There will be a five (5) minute time limit for this test. A warning will be given when thirty (30) seconds remain for the test. Time will start when the handler sends his/her dog out to search from any point around the perimeter of the search area.
HANDLER
The dog, on clearly indicating or finding a search article may be encouraged to retrieve it. Preferably, the handler will elect to recover it themselves. The handler may enter the search area and direct the search as he/she would in an actual situation. After each indication and article recovery the handler will command the dog to continue to search. The dog will be judged on the alert and indication to the search article. This must be obvious to the Evaluator. The dog must make two (2) finds out of three (3) with a strong indication on both in order to pass this test. Failure of this test may be based on lack of handler control or disinterest on the part of the dog.
All tests given the K9 team will be on a pass/fail basis. The Evaluator will determine if the team will be certified upon the completion of the test. The handler and dog will be considered as a team and it is the team who will be certified. If the dog changes handlers, a new team exists and the team will need to be certified.
This certification will be valid for two (2) years from the date of issue.
Standards Revision 12/14/03
