Wilderness Tracking/Trailing Test
This test is designed to determine if the Search Dog is capable of tracking an unknown subject in an unfamiliar area. This test is intended to be closely simulative of working situations. This is a test of the dog's ability and proficiency and the handler's control of the dog.
Handlers
Handlers may use leads, tracking ropes, harnesses, Buckle, leather, or training ( one end of the collar shall be attached to the D-ring of the harness) collars while working.
Victims
The victim will be unknown to the dog when possible. The victim will receive instruction from the Evaluator for the method and direction that the track is to be laid. Victim will remain at the end of the trail until found.
Track/Trail
The handler and dog will be secluded from view of the track while it is being laid. When the test begins the Evaluator will inform the handler of the approximate area to begin. The handler will not be told in which direction the track leads. The evaluator will follow the dog team and not interfere with or distract the dog team. At the discretion of the evaluator, the test may be stopped at any time. Handler will be provided a scent article. Dog must indicate on the victim. Handler may encourage the dog or break the dog as needed.
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.
The track/trail shall be 6 to 36 hours old and 1 to 1.5 miles long. It shall contain 3 surface changes appropriate for a wilderness environment and contain 3 turns. There will be a 2 hour time limit.
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 then "T" off from one another and then continue ~another 20 feet before stopping. Dog must indicate on the correct subject. Dog team must pass this portion of the eval before continuing onto the tracking/trailing portion of the eval.
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
