Urban Tracking/Trailing Test
This test is to determine if the Search Dog is capable of performing exercise in a simulation of conditions that are encountered during working situations by the Search Dog team. This test is designed to test the dogs ability and proficiency and the handlers control of the dog. This test is designed to determine the search dog team's ability to track/trail a specific subject in an unfamiliar area.
The handler and dog will be secluded from view of the track while it is being laid The Evaluator will follow the handler and in no way interfere with or distract the canine. The handler may encourage the dog and break the dog as needed.
This test will begin at the direction of the Evaluator in the designated area. The handler will not be instructed in which direction the trail has been laid. The dog must indicate on victim. Handler will be provided a scent article.
Handlers
Handlers may use leads, tracking ropes, harnesses, or leather, buckle, training (one end of collar must be connected to the D-ring of the harness) collars.
Victim
The subject will be unknown to the dog when possible and remain at the end of the trail till found. The victim will receive instruction from the Evaluator for the method and direction that the track is to be laid. Dog must indicate on subject.
Track/Trail
The trail shall be 6 to 36 hours old and 1 to 1.5 miles long. It shall contain 3 surface changes appropriate for an urban environment and contain 3 turns. This test may be conducted at day or night. In the event the team loses the trail and the handler is made aware of the same, he/she will be given five (5) minutes by the Evaluator to recover the track and continue. The Evaluator will advise the handler when the five (5) minutes have elapsed and will notify the team that they have failed this test.
Scent Discrimination Test
A separate scent discrimination test will be conducted before the tracking/trailing portion of the eval. This test will consist of 2 subjects who will walk ~ 50 feet and then "T" off from one another and then continue ~ another 20 feet before stopping. Dog must indicate on the correct subject.
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 October 21, 2006
