In this 3 week course we work to introduce a new handler to the world of K-9. Criss begins with a class lecture in which he covers basic K-9 handling techniques, how odor/scent works (how they detect scent and how this applies to all aspects of K-9 use), K-9 equipment, health issues, and Case Law.
Then the classes move to the field where we put what was discussed in the classroom to practical use. The handlers learn how to move with their K-9 during obedience, how to work with their partner and what to watch for.
The handlers will also learn about tracking, how to lay tracks, how to watch their K-9 and most importantly how to "read" their K-9's behavior. We teach area searches for both narcotic/explosives and people.
The new handler is taught tactics for conducting building searches with a K-9. The team is then run through building searches beginning with basic through more advanced finds.
We teach the handler how to conduct narcotics/explosives searches. We begin by basic searches where the handler just gets use to moving around with a K-9 attached to them, leash control. Once the handler is comfortable we start conducting searches in buildings, lockers, vehicles, etc..
We work the team through bite and control work. Teaching the new handler the importance that obedience plays in both of these aspects of K-9 work.
At the end of the course we certify the team through NNDDA standards on both patrol and detection work.
This 2-week course is designed for those who have already handled a K-9. The overall goal of of this course is to get the handler and K-9 comfortable with one another.
Again we begin in the classroom covering new and reviewing old Case Law issues and reviewing K-9 health issues.
Once in the field the time is spent getting the handler working with their new partner. Working the team through obedience, tracking, bite work, control work, area searches, building searches, and either narcotics or explosives searches.
Again, at the completion of the course we certify the team through NNDDA standards on both patrol and detection work.
