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TRAINING INFORMATION
There are may different, tried and tested ways of training search and rescue dogs throughout the world. There are many books and seminars a person can read or attend, but nothing substitutes the one-on-one input that can be received from a team member. Timing, experience, dog behaviour and team work are just a few of the things that you can be gained from being a member of the national team. In order to establish a relationship you must expect to give as well as receive. You must realise that a mentor will only take on a new candidate if they see that this person has the ability to become a competent handler and more importantly be a team player. More than often a mentor who is prepared to support a new potential handler usually has their own full time role within the Fire Service, which will also include the commitment of training their own search dog/s as well. The commitment to take on more responsibility as a mentor can be very time consuming on both parties, up to 18 months to achieve a basic standard, and the first think that a mentor will normally do is to try to discourage this applicant. The role of a USAR handler will eat into you every day life, 7 days a week, on and off duty! So be prepared to make personal sacrifices to yourself and your family. For more details on this subject please contact one of our handlers to discuss their own personal experiences on taking on a USAR search dog.
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