Cadaver Search Test

This test is designed to evaluate the Search Dog's proficiency in searching designated areas for the scent of cadaver. This test will determine the proficiency of the cadaver detection team.

A total of three legally obtained aids must be provided for evaluation. Pseudo aids or swine substitutes are NOT acceptable. The minimum search area must be 100 feet by 100 feet.

Types of Searches to be Performed

The following will comprise the required elements of the testing and each dog will have a clean area to test for items 1 and 2.

  1. Scent will be covered with dirt, leaves, brush, or tree branches.
  2. Twelve hours before testing, an aid will be buried in a vegetated area. The aid must be at least three months of age and be buried to the depth of six inches. A minimum of three to four holes will be dug.
  3. Scent will be placed in an elevated position, approximately six to ten feet from the ground level of floor. This test may be conducted within the confines of a structure.
  4. One blank aid will be placed in one sector.

Handler

The handler will advise the evaluator how the dog indicates. He/she may enter the search area to direct the dog. The test may be done on or off lead. The dog's indication must be obvious to the evaluator.

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.

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Standards Revision October 21, 2006

Guidelines