Search and rescue dogs training

Search and rescue dogs play a major role in disaster search around the world. The search and rescue dog is trained to locate missing or buried humans in emergency situations. Search dogs are trained to air scent; it seeks the airborne scent produced by a subject and works the air currents back and forth until it "hits" a human scent.

Records shows that one search dog/handler team can cover up to one square mile of search work per day and is as effective as 100 grid searchers, the number of personnel ad hours required on a search decreases while the probability of detection increases. The search area is subdivided into sectors. with one dog/handler team per sector. This system provides the best possible coverage of a search area; however, factors such as terrain, natural barriers, and weather can affect the rate of coverage.

Once the dog attempts to reach the subject, it will indicate to the handler by barking or other signs.

Airscenting dogs are versatile. They can be used at any time during a search, including during or after rain, and at night. They can work after other searchers have been through the area, and can be deployed days or weeks after a subject has been reported missing.

Patrick have produced operationally qualified search team with the Singapore Civil Defence Force & has emplaced in a volunteer search & rescue team for disaster mitigation mission that requires search dogs.

Our Demonstration to the Commissioner of SCDF in Nov 2000       Our Certify test conducted by the commander of SCDF in September 2000       Search & Rescue Dog training since 1999       Our official operation with SCDF on 23rd Apr 2001 A sixth-storey carpark ramp at a Bedok North Street 5 construction site had collapsed. Our 3 certified volunteers: Patrick with "What-Oh", William with ":Rex" & Jane with "Duo Duo".