conservation dog/handler team - doc.govt.nz · for project managers to access protected species and...

Conservation Dog/Handler Team

Standard Operating Procedure

Last printed 21/07/2016 14:23:00 Conservation Dog-Handler Team SOP - DOCDM-749423.doc

ii

Contents

I. Purpose iii

II. Process iv

III. Requirements table vii

IV. About this document xi

1. Introduction 1

1.1 Roles and responsibilities 1

2. Accessing dog/handler team services 2

2.1 Pest detection dog services 3 2.2 Protected species detection dog services 5 2.3 Costs of utilising dog/handler teams 6

3. Dog/handler team certification and standards 7

3.1 Gaining entry into the dogs programme 7 3.2 Certification 10 3.3 Add new species to full certificate 13 3.4 Costs of establishment and maintenance of dog/handler teams 15 3.5 Retiring dogs and lapsing certification 16 3.6 Appealing a decision 16

4. Incident reporting and revocation of certificates 17

5. Dog welfare and etiquette 19

5.1 Dog health requirements 20 5.2 Working dog and handler etiquette 21 5.3 Transporting dogs 22

6. Appointing certifiers 23

7. Appendices 24

7.1 Certified dog handlers and dogs programme contacts (docdm-1292127) 24 7.2 Conservation dogs programme fact sheet (DOC-2185771) 24 7.3 Dog handler application (docdm-342115) 24 7.4 Dog handler selection interview (docdm-342146) 24 7.5 Interim certificate assessment (docdm-368123) 24 7.6 Full certificate assessment (docdm-720174) 24 7.7 Dog handler incident report (docdm-342129) 24 7.8 Request for pest detection dog assistance (docdm-342112) 24


iii

I. Purpose

The Conservation Dog/Handler Team SOP provides standardised procedures and templates:

• for project managers to access protected species and pest detection dog services;

• outlining the process of certification for handlers and dogs; and

• outlining the minimum standards for dog welfare and professional behaviour.

Scope

This SOP applies to:

• Dog handlers who will be undertaking work on DOC projects or on public conservation land or in the presence of protected species and their managers/contract supervisors.

• Project Managers wanting to use pest and/or protected species detection dogs.

• External organisations using dogs on programmes which require DOC approval or permits.

• Dogs Programme Manager for the Conservation Dogs Programme.

• Certifiers of handlers and dogs which are used in this programme.

• Anyone wishing to report an incident resulting in - or potentially resulting in - physical damage to target or non-target species or serious damage to the dog; or harm - or threat of harm - to a member of the public by a dog in the programme; or any other inappropriate dog or handler behaviour.

This SOP does not apply where dogs are used in Wild Animal Control (WAC) operations, search and rescue operations or in any other specialised agency service (e.g. Police dogs).

This SOP replaces the 1995 Protected Species Dog Guidelines, and fulfils part of the Predator Dog 5 Year Strategy.


iv

II. Process

Accessing dog services process

Local dog/handler team available?

Seek advice from Dogs Programme

Manager or Species Dog Certifier for

suitable handler

Deal directly with Private handler

Contact Technical Advisor, Threats (Pest detection dogs) or Dogs Programme

ManagerComplete a Request for

assistance form

Identify dog services required

No

Protected species

No

Yes

Dogs Programme Manager schedules

annual work plan

Pest detection

Pest incursion(or other

Emergency)?

Dog/handler team known?DOC hander?

Deal directly with handler's Ops Manager, then

handler

YesYes

Yes NoNo


v

Conservation Dogs Programme certification process

Fail x 1

Handler interview

Fail x 1

Fail x 2

Fail x 2

Grant Interim certificate

< 6 months

Grant Full certificate

Full certificate assessment

3 years

Yes

No

New handler application

Add new species

STOP or reassess target species for dog

Remove from programme

Interim certificate assessment

Accepted into Programme?

No

Is there a needfor this handler

team?

Pass

Yes< 12 months


vi

Incident reporting and investigation process

Investigation

Suspend certificate

Option 2

Option 3

Pass Fail

Option 1Revoke certificate/

remove from programme

Confirm certificate

Incident

CertificateReassessment


vii

III. Requirements table

Level II, or higher, managers are authorised to approve variation from SOP requirements and are accountable for those decisions. They are required to use their professional judgement and seek advice or escalate when in doubt. All decisions should be documented. It is expected that variations from requirements will be the exception rather than the norm, and that legal (i.e. legislation and judge made laws), and health and safety requirements are effectively compulsory. Common sense should prevail in the case of exceptional or emergency field situations.

REQUIREMENTS WHO IS ACCOUNTABLE FOR CARRYING OUT THE REQUIREMENT

WHY?/CONSEQUENCE LINKS COMPLETED / COMMENTS

Accessing dog/handler team services

Dog/handler teams working on DOC projects within the scope of this SOP must hold at least a current interim certificate for the target

species.

Ranger, Operations or delegate

The requirement ensures the Department meets its legal obligations with regard to the following:

- Section 63 of the Wildlife Act 1953 which makes it an offence to hunt or kill absolutely protected

wildlife without lawful authority; and

- Section 39(1)(ca) Conservation Act 1987 which creates an offence of allowing an animal of any kind

to enter a conservation area.

2. Accessing dog/handler

team services

Where projects require permits to handle protected species, dog/handler teams must hold at least interim



- Section 63 of the Wildlife Act 1953 which makes it an offence to hunt or kill absolutely protected

2. Accessing dog/handler

team services


viii

certification for the target

species. wildlife without lawful authority; and

- Section 39(1)(ca) Conservation Act 1987 which creates an offence of allowing an animal of any kind to enter a conservation area without lawful

authority.

Dog/handler team certification and standards

Standards for gaining entry into the dogs programme and

selecting a dog must be met.

Handler/Certifier The application and interview process ensures that applicants have the appropriate skills and experience, understand the time/cost commitments involved, and have the support of their manager (if applicable).

3.1 Gaining entry into dogs programme

Standards for certificate assessment must be met.

Certifier This standard ensures that dog/handler teams have the appropriate level of proven field experience to undertake unsupervised work in the field. It is also important that reassessment takes place every three years to ensure that dog/handler team skill

and knowledge remains current.

3.2 Certification

Standards for gaining certification must be met.

Handler The requirement ensures the Department meets its legal obligations with regard to the following:

- Section 63 of the Wildlife Act 1953 which makes it an offence to kill absolutely protected

wildlife; and

- Section 39(1)(ca) Conservation Act 1987 which creates an offence of allowing an animal of

any kind to enter a conservation area.

3.2 Certification


ix

Align requests to add new target species to a full certificate with national needs of dogs programme. Consider

all criteria.

Dogs Programme Manager and one

certifier

The Dogs Programme Manager must ensure that any requests meet the real needs of the dogs

programme from a national perspective.

3.3 Add new species to full certificate

Incident reporting and revocation of certificates

Standards for incident reporting, investigation and

revocation must be met.

Dogs Programme Manager or Certifier

When working with dogs on public conservation land, handlers bear legal responsibilities for the welfare of the dogs, the public, and any wildlife in these areas (particularly protected species). A failure to properly investigate incidents involving conservation dog teams may place the above-mentioned at undue risk as well as harming the reputation of the dogs programme or the Department as a whole.

Legal obligations under the following legislation inform the incident reporting and investigation

standards:

- the Dog Control Act 1996

- the Animal Welfare (Dog) Welfare Code 2010

- Section 63 of the Wildlife Act 1953 which makes it an offence to hunt or kill absolutely protected wildlife

without lawful authority; and

- Section 39(1)(ca) Conservation Act 1987 which creates an offence of allowing an animal of any kind to enter a conservation area.

4. Incident reporting and revocation of certificates

Dog welfare and etiquette


x

All dogs must be treated and cared for in a humane manner in accordance with the Animal Welfare Act 1999, including any relevant Codes of Welfare made under the Act and its administration.

Handler and Certifier/s

The Animal Welfare Act 1999 imposes obligations on every person who owns or is in charge of dogs. A code of welfare has been issued pursuant to section 75 of the Act and will provide guidance on how to comply with the legislative requirements. Owners and those in charge of dogs must comply with the minimum standards in the code and the general provisions of

the Act.

In instances where dog handlers do not conform to the standards outlined in this section, an incident should be reported and investigated as outlined in

section 4.

5. Dog welfare and etiquette

Standards for dog health requirements must be met.

Handler The standards interpret and consolidate the controls applied under the Animal Welfare (Dog) Welfare Code 2010 and advice from veterinary

experts.

5.1 Dog Health Requirements

Standards outlined for working dog (and handler)

etiquette must be met.

Handler The standards interpret and consolidate the controls applied under the Dog Control Act 1996 and Animal Welfare (Dog) Welfare Code 2010 and

associated departmental regulations.

5.2 Working Dog and Handler Etiquette

Standards for transporting dogs must be met.

Handler The standards interpret and consolidate the controls applied under the Animal Welfare (Dog) Welfare Code 2010 and associated departmental

regulations.

5.3 Transporting Dogs


xi

IV. About this document

Coordinator

Karen Vincent

Technical Advisor, Systems Improvement - Threats

Transformation and Threats

Science and Technical

Owner

Simon Kelton

Threats Manager

Transformation and Threats

Science and Technical

Approved for use

Sue Tucker, DD-G Operations

Signed: Date: 11 October 2011 Kevin O’Connor, DD-G Research and Development Signed:

Date: 12 October 2011

Amendments

AMENDMENT DATE

AMENDMENT DETAILS

DOCDM VERSION

AMENDED BY

16/09/2011 Document created 1.0 K Vincent

27/07/2012 Job and unit title amendments as per Organisational Review.

1.1 K Vincent

12/02/2013 Request for assistance date change

1.2 K Vincent


xii

13/09/2013 Job title amendments as per Delivery Review

1.3 K Vincent

14/10/2013 Consistent wording of 'dogs programme', change Dog Programme Supervisor to Dogs Programme Manager, fix

hyperlinks

1.4 K Vincent

24/10/2014 Amend Incident reporting process 1.5 K Vincent

04/05/2016 Change 'predator dog' to 'pest detection dog'. Job title amendments as per Pilot

Implementation

1.6 K Vincent

21/06/2106 Updated Accessing dog services process

1.8 K Vincent


xiii

Terminology and definitions

Links

Animal Welfare (Dogs) Code of Welfare 2010

Conservation Dogs Programme

Internal/External Loads in the Helicopter Safety SOP (docdm-208219)

Island Biosecurity Best Practice Manual, Section 1.9 Dog vaccination (docdm-20171)

Audit Surveillance or post eradication/incursion result monitoring.

Contingency Active searching for a pest after a suspected incursion.

Dog/handler team A person trained and certified in partnership with a specific dog to undertake specific work activities.

Incursion Invasion incident where a pest is found in the wild on an island, stepping-stone island or other secure area.

Non-target species Animals unintentionally affected by the pest control method or detected by dogs.

Pest detection dog A dog specifically trained to detect pest species other than those targeted by wild animal control dogs. This is usually but not limited to

rodents, mustelids, feral cats or hedgehogs.

Protected species dog A dog specifically trained to detect protected species. For example, kiwi, whio, pateake etc.

Quarantine Active searching for the target pest before it reaches an island or another secure area.

Surveillance Programmed work carried out on islands and secure areas to detect any pests.

Target species Any species (pest or protected) which a conservation dog/handler team has been specifically trained to detect and/or detect and locate.

Wild animal control (WAC) dogs

Dogs used on DOC operations to target wild animals as currently defined under the WAC Act 1997 and Amendments. This usually means goats, pigs, deer, and wallabies.

http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/files/regs/animal-welfare/req/codes/dogs/dogs-code-of-welfare.pdf

dme://docdm-296935/

dme://docdm-208219/

dme://docdm-20171/


1

1. Introduction

Fully certified dog handlers provide professional dog services to conservation projects.

Dogs are an important tool in natural heritage management and have been used extensively for many years in protected species management, recovery projects, eradication projects, incursion incident responses and wild animal control operations.

Untrained dogs pose a risk to ground-dwelling wildlife – however, correctly trained and professionally handled dog/handler teams can be a highly valuable conservation tool. Both the handler and their dog must have the right attributes to become an effective and professional team, and to ensure national standards of behaviour and safety are met consistently.

1.1 Roles and responsibilities


Since 2002 the Department has run a dedicated Conservation Dogs Programme providing:

• Dog and handler training advice and certification;

• Systems development and improvement; and

• A breeding programme and operational support for pest detection dogs.

Dogs Programme Manager

The Dogs Programme Manager with assistance from the Technical Advisor (Pest Detection Dogs) and Certifiers is responsible for the coordination, maintenance and development of the dogs programme. This includes:

• Ensuring professional services from dog/handler teams are available nationally.

• Forward planning and coordination to meet demand.

• Developing and maintaining capability to respond to new priorities.

• Maintaining a team of qualified certifiers to ensure high standards are consistently upheld.

• Chairing the Conservation Dogs Advisory Group.

Technical Advisor, Threats (Pest Detection Dogs)

The Technical Advisor (Pest detection Dogs) assists with coordination of the conservation dogs programme, and professional pest detection dog services to individual projects. This role also supports the training, mentoring and certification of dog handlers.

dme://docdm-296935/


2

Certifiers

A certifier is responsible for assessing dog/handler teams against the conservation dogs programme certification standards. A certifier will usually have previous experience training working dog/handler teams and current certification as a conservation dog handler. The team of certifiers has a responsibility for maintaining a consistently high quality of dog/handler teams. They are also required to provide training advice and mentoring for dog handlers.

Refer to Appendix 7.1 (docdm-1292127) for Conservation Dogs Programme and handlers contact information.

2. Accessing dog/handler team services


WHY?/CONSEQUENCE

Dog/handler teams working on DOC projects within the scope of this SOP must hold at least a current interim

certificate for target species.



- Section 63 of the Wildlife Act 1953 which makes it an offence to hunt or kill absolutely

protected wildlife without lawful authority; and

- Section 39(1)(ca) Conservation Act 1987 which creates an offence of allowing an animal of any kind to enter a conservation area.

Where projects require permits to handle protected species, dog/handler teams must hold at least interim certification for the target species.



- Section 63 of the Wildlife Act 1953 which makes it an offence to hunt or kill absolutely

protected wildlife without lawful authority; and

- Section 39(1)(ca) Conservation Act 1987 which creates an offence of allowing an animal of any kind to enter a conservation area without lawful

authority.

The Conservation Dogs Programme supports conservation projects by facilitating access to dog services where there is limited availability and/or urgent need.

Standards

1. All dog/handler teams working on DOC projects or on public conservation land must hold at least a current interim certificate for the target species.


3

2. Where projects require permits to handle protected species, dog/handler teams must hold at least interim certification for the target species.

Process Overview

Refer to the Accessing dog services flowchart (II Process) for an overview.

The following sections outline in further detail the respective standards and procedures for accessing:

• Pest detection dog services; and

• Protected species detection dog services.

2.1 Pest detection dog services

2.1.1 Accessing pest detection dog services

Pest detection dogs have been trained to locate animal or plant pests by indicating sign, scent, dead or live animals. They are trained to detect, not control, pests. Control methods used are trapping, pesticides and shooting. Pest detection dogs are most effective when pest numbers are low. Examples of current use are:

• Auditing as part of, or following, an eradication programme.

• Surveillance as part of island biosecurity.

• Part of the contingency following a suspected invasion/reinvasion of an offshore island.

• For quarantine purposes when consignments of equipment are being checked prior to dispatch to an area that is considered to be free of the target pest species.

• Trap placement e.g. the best place to set a trap.

Procedures for requesting assistance

• In the first instance, pest detection dog services are to be arranged by staff using a pest detection dog/handler team in their Region. Any such arrangements are to be approved by respective line managers.

• Information about certified dog/handler teams, the target species they are certified for, and how they may be contacted can be found in the Pest Detection Dog Handler List in Certified dog handlers and dogs programme contacts (Appendix 7.1 , docdm-1292127).

Tip: Arrange the services of a local dog/handler team well in advance as once the annual work plan has been scheduled they may become unavailable to meet your project needs.

• If there is not a suitable pest detection dog/handler team available in the Region that can meet the project needs, the Project Manager should request assistance from the Conservation Dogs Programme. Requests for assistance should be approved by the line manager prior to submission.

dme://docdm-299873/


4

• Make a request for assistance by submitting a completed Request for pest detection dog assistance form (Appendix 7.8, docdm-342112) to the Dogs Programme Manager by 01 April each year, for the following business year (July to June).

2.1.2 Annual work plan for pest detection dog services

• Pest detection dog work often takes place outside the handler’s local office projects, unlike protected species dog work which is mostly associated with a project in the local office. This is why requests for assistance accessing pest detection dog services are prioritised and scheduled annually and aligned with DOC annual business planning.

• The Dogs Programme Manager is responsible for creating the annual work plan for pest detection dog services.

• Advance planning ensures Project Managers can factor the costs of dog services into their annual budget and dog handlers and their DOC managers are aware of their annual commitments.

• The Dogs Programme Manager will consider the following criteria when scheduling the annual plan for pest detection dog services:

• The national priority of requests and how they relate to current pest detection dog/handler capacity.

• Feedback from Technical Advisor (Pest Detection Dogs), dog handlers and their managers.

Process for scheduling annual work plan

The following table sets out the process of establishing an annual plan for pest detection dog services:

Step Who is responsible?

Action Detail

1. Identify project needs

Project Manager • Identify pest detection dog project needs.

• If needs cannot be met locally, consider requesting assistance from the Conservation Dogs Programme.

Look at whether project needs can be met locally before requesting

assistance.

2. Submit request for assistance

Project Manager • Gain line manager’s approval for the request.

• Complete and submit Request for pest detection dog assistance form.

The line manager will need to consider any costs involved before approving the request. See 2.3 Costs of utilising dog/handler

teams.

3. Collate applications


Receive applications for assistance from Project

dme://docdm-342112/

dme://docdm-342112/


5

Managers by 1 April.

4. Prepare annual work plan


Prepare annual work plan by:

• Identifying required resources, current capacity, and ability to meet project needs outlined by Project Manager.

• Prioritising requests in relation to conservation outcomes for each project, how pest detection dogs will contribute, and feasibility of using dogs.

May consult with:

• Members of the Conservation Dog Advisory Group.

• Project Managers where there are difficulties meeting their requests.

5. Notification Dogs Programme Manager

Provide project managers, handlers, line managers and certifiers with annual work plan

by email.

• Project Managers who submitted a request are advised of the outcome in a timely manner.

• Handlers and their DOC managers are advised of their dog handler requirements for the next business year.

2.1.3 Emergency or contingency procedure

In the event of pest incursions or other contingencies, requests for assistance are to go through the Technical Advisor (Pest Detection Dogs) or Dogs Programme Manager and do not require a form to be completed.

Note: Incursion events may take priority over scheduled dog services. Where scheduled dog services are affected, alternative arrangements should be made between the dog handler and the affected project manager. If alternative arrangements cannot be made, the project manager should contact the Dogs Programme Manager.

2.2 Protected species detection dog services

Protected species detection dogs have been used successfully to locate animals (birds, lizards, etc.) - many of which are endangered - for research or translocation purposes. They have played a major role in the conservation of protected species such as kakapo, kiwi, whio, pateke and takahe.

Procedures for arranging services

• In the first instance, protected species dog services are to be arranged by staff using a dog/handler team based in their Region. Arrangements made by staff should be approved by respective line managers. Consult the Certified dog handlers & dogs programme contacts (Appendix 7.1, docdm-1292127) for a list of certified dog/handler teams and their target species.

dme://docdm-299873/

dme://docdm-299873/


6

• If there is not a suitable protected species dog/handler team available in the Region that can meet the project needs, the Project Manager should seek the assistance of a competent dog/handler team known to them or used before from outside of their Region.

• There is no annual plan for scheduling protected species dog services. Arrangements are to be made directly between the Project Manager and the respective handler.

Seeking advice on appropriate dog/handler team

If independent advice is required on who is the most suitable handler for your project, please contact the Protected Species Dog Certifier, Technical Advisor (Pest Detection Dogs) or the Dogs Programme Manager. Contact details can be found in Appendix 7.1 (docdm-1292127).

2.3 Costs of utilising dog/handler teams

Financial support

Financial support is made available to pest detection dog/handler team’s DOC offices from the Conservation Dogs Programme for the following reasons:

• Pest detection dog/handler teams are scarce resources which need to be prioritised nationally;

• The demand for services is often unpredictable, e.g. a suspected rat incursion on an island; and

• Pest detection dog/handler teams require a higher level of aversion training.

Costs of utilising dog/handler teams

The responsibility for paying costs associated with dog/handler team services varies according to a number of factors. The following table outlines who is responsible for paying costs under different circumstances:

Scenario What costs? Who pays?

DOC handler:

Working on DOC projects – within local

region

Pest and protected species:

• Handler salary costs

Handler’s line manager and receiving project manager to make arrangements.

Working on DOC projects – outside local

region

Pest:


Handler’s line manager and receiving project manager to make arrangements, usually the handler's hours are coded to receiving project managers WBS code..

Protected species:


Handler’s line manager and receiving project manager to make arrangements.


7


• Handler travel costs

• Vet fees (work related ailments/injuries)

Receiving project manager.

Working on non-DOC projects


• Handler salary

• Travel costs, and

• Vet fees (work related ailments/ injuries)

Handler to make arrangements with employer/organisation.

External handler:

Working on DOC and non DOC projects


• Handler salary

• Travel costs, and

• Vet fees (work related ailments/ injuries)

Handler to make arrangements with receiving project.

3. Dog/handler team certification and standards

Refer to the Conservation Dogs Programme Certification Process flowchart (II. Process) for an overview of the processes described in this section.

3.1 Gaining entry into the dogs programme


WHY?/CONSEQUENCE

Standards for gaining entry into the dogs programme and

selecting a dog must be met.

Handler/Certifier The application and interview process ensures that applicants have the appropriate skills and experience, understand the time/cost commitments involved and have the support of their

manager (if applicable).

Start Point

Deciding to become a certified protected species or pest detection dog/handler team is a serious and long term commitment. The training is rigorous and teams are required to meet a high standard to pass certification assessments and to maintain their standard at that level.


8

DOC employees wishing to enter the Dogs programme must first gain approval from their line manager. In deciding whether to approve a request to apply, managers should consider:

• Training commitments;

• Cost implications;

• Pest detection dog work commitments outside Office or Region; and

• The potential benefit of having a local detection dog resource.

Standards

Gaining entry into the programme

1. The prospective handler gains the approval of their line manager before submitting an application for entry into the programme.

2. The prospective handler attends a selection interview and scores a minimum of 24 overall (see Appendix 7.4 Dog handler selection interview).

3. If the prospective dog handler is a DOC employee, the handler and their local office understand and are able to meet the costs associated with the programme. See Section 3.5.

Selecting a dog

4. Dogs must be of a suitable breed in order to be used in conservation work. Some breeds are not suitable under any circumstances (e.g. bull type breeds).

Tips on selecting a dog:

• A prospective dog handler should not commit to acquiring a dog until they have received approval to join the programme.

• Careful consideration should be given to the type of breed selected. Seek advice from the Technical Advisor (Pest Detection Dogs) or Protected Species Certifier and/or other certified dog handlers regarding appropriate breeds of dog for the type of work they will be doing.

• Certain breeds of dog are more suitable than others for specific tasks required by pest detection and protected species location work respectively.


9

Process


Action Detail

1. Seek advice Dogs Programme Manager

Provide information to prospective handler outlining processes, expenses and

commitment required.

Advice can be sought from:

• Fact sheet (Appendix 7.2).

• The Dogs Programme Manager or a Certifier.

• Other certified dog handlers.

2. Application to become a

handler

Prospective Handler

• Obtain application form (Appendix 7.3), copy of this SOP and Appendices.

• Complete application and submit it to Dogs Programme Manager.

• Documents can be provided by the Dogs Programme Manager or a Certifier or via online download.

• DOC staff applying to join the dogs programme must ensure their application has been approved by their line manager.

3. Determine need


• Receive application.

• Determine if there is a need within the Dogs programme for this specific dog/handler team.

May consult with certifiers, Recovery Group Leaders, Project Leaders, managers and

other staff.

4. Interview with prospective handler


Nominate a certifier and arrange for them to conduct the

interview.

For further details, see Appendix 7.4 Dog handler

selection interview.

Certifier • Conduct interview.

• Discuss interview results with at least one other certifier or Dogs Programme Manager.

Sends interview form to the Dogs Programme Manager but

retains a copy.

5. Decision Certifier Advise prospective handler, line or project manager (where applicable) and Dogs Programme Manager of their decision to

accept or reject applicant.

See 3.6 Appealing a decision.

7. Entry into programme

New Handler Acquire a suitable dog. See Tips on selecting a dog.

Assessed for an interim certificate within 12 months.


10

3.2 Certification


WHY?/CONSEQUENCE

Standards for certificate assessment

must be met

Certifier This standard ensures that dog/handler teams have the appropriate level of field experience to undertake work in the field. It is also important that reassessment takes place every three years to ensure that dog/handler team skill and knowledge remains current.

Standards for gaining certification must be

met.

Handler The requirement ensures the Department meets its legal obligations with regard to the following:

- Section 63 of the Wildlife Act which makes it an offence

to kill absolutely protected wildlife; and

- Section 39(1)(ca) Conservation Act which creates an offence of allowing an animal of any kind to enter a

conservation area.

Start Point

You have gained entry into the dogs programme and selected an appropriate dog. You may now begin training to gain certification as a conservation dog/handler team.

General information

• Training towards the certificate is to be managed by the handler with advice from the certifier. Depending on the experience of the dog/handler team, a training advisor may be nominated by the certifier.

• There are two stages in the certification process: interim certification and full certification. A certificate specifies which target species a particular dog/handler team are certified to detect.

• The amount of training required will vary from one dog/handler team to the next. The key is that the team achieve the required standards.

• Certified handlers are to participate in a handler workshop once every two years.

Objectives

Certification assessment evaluates:

• Dog obedience;

• Handler skills;

• Non-target aversion (avian aversion for pest detection dogs, bird safe for protected species dogs, toxins & traps for both); and

• Target specificity.


11

Process

The table below outlines the general process applied to assessment at both the interim and full assessment stages. The respective assessment outcomes for these stages are slightly different for each and are described in the relevant sub sections that follow.


Action Detail

1. Arrange assessment

Handler Contact certifier and arrange interim or full certificate

assessment.

The certifier is allocated by the Dogs Programme Manager.

2. Assessment Certifier Assess dog/handler team and advise handler of

outcome on site.

• Send assessment form to Dogs Programme Manager. Retain a copy.

• Possible outcomes for interim and full certification assessment are detailed in:

- 3.2.1. (Outcomes - Interim certification assessment)

- 3.2.2 (Outcomes - Full certification assessment)

3. Notification

Certifer Send letter to handler formally advising outcome of assessment.

• Enter information onto the dogs programme database.

• Update Certified dog handlers & dogs programme contacts (Appendix 7.1).

• Every 3 months, Dogs Programme Manager informs certifiers which certificates are about to expire.

3.2.1 Interim Certification

• Interim certification allows a dog/handler team to train in the presence of protected species.

• Dog/handler teams should be assessed for interim certification within 12 months of gaining entry in the dogs programme.

Standards for Interim Certification

1. Training for interim certification is not conducted with or in the presence of protected species.

2. To qualify for an interim certificate the handler and dog team are assessed in accordance with the Interim Certificate Assessment (Appendix 7.5, docdm-368123) and must score a minimum of 3 for each criterion.

3. The interim certificate specifies any special conditions or requirements that apply.

4. The interim certificate is valid for 6 months from date of assessment.


12

5. An uncertified dog/handler team is not permitted to work on public conservation land or on protected species.

Outcomes - Interim certification assessment

The possible outcomes from Step 2 (Assessment) of the Process table for interim certificate assessment are detailed below:

PASS

Dogs Programme Manager:

• Issue an interim certificate valid for 6 months from the date of assessment.

• Under special circumstances, at the discretion of the Dogs Programme Manager, an interim certificate can be extended once for another 6 months.

• Record the target species and any special conditions or requirements that apply on the certificate.

FAIL

Certifier:

• Reassess within 3 months. A dog/handler team may only be reassessed once. Failure to meet interim certificate criteria at their second assessment will result in removal from the programme; or

• Remove the dog/handler team from the programme.

• See 3.6 Appealing a decision.

3.2.2 Full certification, reassessment and renewal

Start Point

You have been granted an Interim Certificate and spent some time in the field with the nominated certifier and /or training advisor. You have also spent a considerable amount of time working on the target species and non-target aversion as a team. Less than 6 months has elapsed since you gained interim certification.

Standards for full certification

1. The dog/handler team are to be assessed for full certification within 6 months of gaining their interim certificate unless an extension has been granted by the Dogs Programme Manager.

2. To qualify for a full certificate the handler and dog are assessed in accordance with the Full Certificate Assessment (Appendix 7.6, docdm-720174) and score a minimum of 4 for each criterion.

3. The certificate states the target species and lists any special conditions or requirements that apply.

4. A full certificate is valid for 3 years from date of assessment.

5. It is the handler’s responsibility to maintain assessment standards for the term of the certificate’s validity.

dme://docdm-720174/


13

6. Before a full certificate expires, the dog/handler team undergoes reassessment in order to renew their certificate.

7. Fully certified handlers are to provide an annual report on activities to the Dogs Programme Manager.

Outcomes - Full certification assessment

The possible outcomes from Step 2 (Assessment) of the Process table for full certificate assessment are detailed below:

PASS

Dogs Programme Manager:

• Issues a full certificate valid for 3 years from the date of assessment.

• Records the target species and any special conditions or requirements that apply on the certificate.

FAIL

Certifier:

• Option 1: Reassess within 3 months. The dog/handler team can operate under the conditions of an interim certificate while waiting for reassessment. A dog/handler team may only be reassessed once. Failure to meet full certificate criteria at their second assessment will result in removal from the programme; or

• Option 2: Remove the dog/handler team from the programme.

• See 3.6 Appealing a decision.

Reassessment and renewal

Follow the certification process for full certificate reassessment and renewal.

3.3 Add new species to full certificate


WHY?/CONSEQUENCE

Align requests to add new target species to full certificate with national needs of dogs programme. Consider all criteria.

Dogs Programme Manager and one certifier

The Dogs Programme Manager must ensure that any requests meet the real needs of the dogs programme from a national perspective.

Dog/handler teams must gain certification for each target species they will be required to detect.

Start Point

A project requires the dog/handler team to detect a new target species.


14

Objective

To up-skill dog/handler teams only where there is a clear benefit to the project and the conservation dogs programme.

Assessment Criteria

The Dogs Programme Manager and Certifier will decide how to proceed with the request based on the following criteria:

1. Ability of dog/handler team to detect new species.

2. Experience of dog/handler team.

3. Benefit to national capacity.

4. Local project needs.

5. Vulnerability of target species (protected species).

Process

Step Responsibility Action/s Detail

1. Identify an opportunity

Project Manager, Dogs Programme Manager, or

Handler

Identify an opportunity for a target species to be added to a fully certified local dog/handler team to assist with

a local work programme

2. Initiate request

Handler Contact the Dogs Programme Manager with request.


Discuss the request with the handler and a certifier.

Certifier should be familiar with the handler.

3. Alignment with need

Dogs Programme Manager/ Certifier

Consider assessment criteria against national need and local capacity and decide whether there is a sufficient need for the team to train for the new

target species.

See Outcomes - Alignment with need

4. Notification


Inform line manager of outcome. Enter the information onto dogs programme database.

Outcomes - Alignment with need

Need substantiated:

• Issue interim certificate for new species and assess for full within 6 months. Follow the procedures in 3.2.2 Full certification, re-assessment and renewal. Training may be required.

• If the team pass the full assessment for a new target species either issue a full certificate for the new species valid for 3 years, or add endorsement for new species to existing certificate until original expiry date.

• If the team fails, see Option 1 and Option 2 of the full certificate assessment process.


15

Need not substantiated:

• Decline the request.

See 3.6 Appealing a decision.

3.4 Costs of establishment and maintenance of dog/handler teams

The table below outlines some of the costs involved in participating in the conservation dogs programme and who is expected to meet them.

Cost area What/where are the costs? Who pays?

Purchase pup/dog • Purchase of dog

• Dog Registration

• Micro-chipping

Handler

Note: Local councils may offer reduced

registration fees for working dogs.

Certification process Certifier

• Travel and salary


Pest or protected species handler (DOC)


Handler’s local DOC office

Pest or protected species handler (External)


Handler (External) or employer/organisation

Dog allowance

(Refer to PSA/DOC Collective Agreement)

Protected species handler (DOC) Handler’s local DOC office

Pest handler (DOC) Shared 50/50 between local DOC office and Conservation Dogs Programme for fully

certified dogs.

Vet fees (work related ailments or

injury)

Pest or protected species handler (DOC)

DOC office administering project (e.g. Moehau Kiwi Sanctuary) or by negotiation if working on

an external project.

Technical Advisor (Pest Detection Dogs)



Handler or by negotiation with employer/organisation

Vet fees (annual programme and non-work related

ailments or injury)

All handlers

Handler


16

Training (including attendance at biennial handler

workshops)

Pest handler (DOC)

• Salary

Handler’s local DOC office. For fully certified teams the Conservation Dogs Programme contributes 40 hours per dog/handler team per

annum to the handler’s local DOC office.*

Protected species handler (DOC) Handler’s local DOC office


Handler

* The annual budget for the Conservation Dogs Programme determines the total hours available to be distributed nationally.

3.5 Retiring dogs and lapsing certification

• It is the responsibility of the dog handler to inform the Dogs Programme Manager when they wish to withdraw their dog (or themselves) from the conservation dogs programme, or they or their dog are no longer able to participate.

• Where more than 6 months have passed since a dog/handler team’s certification has expired without renewal or a reasonable explanation from the handler, the Dogs Programme Manager may remove them from the programme. In such situations, the Dogs Programme Manager should first send the handler an expiry reminder.

• An up-to-date record of active dogs allows the Dogs Programme Manager to coordinate and plan effectively.

3.6 Appealing a decision

If the handler contests the decision of the certifier they should contact the Dogs Programme Manager who will review the decision. Another certifier may be asked to assist with this exercise.


17

4. Incident reporting and revocation of certificates


WHY?/CONSEQUENCE

Standards for incident reporting, investigation and revocation must be met


When working with dogs on conservation land, handlers bear legal responsibilities for the welfare of the dogs, the public, and any wildlife in these areas (particularly protected species). A failure to properly investigate incidents involving conservation dog teams may place the above-mentioned at undue risk as well as harming the reputation of the dogs programme or the Department as a whole.

Legal obligations under the following legislation (but not limited to) inform the incident reporting and

investigation standards:

- the Dog Control Act 1996;

- the Animal Welfare (Dog) Welfare Code 2010;

- Section 63 of the Wildlife Act 1953 (which makes it an offence to kill absolutely protected wildlife); and

- Section 39(1)(ca) Conservation Act 1987 which creates an offence of allowing an animal of any kind to

enter a conservation area.

Start Point

You have witnessed an incident involving a certified dog/handler team.

Overview

See the Incident Investigation process flowchart (II. Process) for an overview.

General

• Anyone can report an incident in confidence.

• Any incident involving dogs used for conservation work should be reported to the Dogs Programme Manager or Certifier at the earliest possible opportunity.

• Early reporting of incidents, regardless of severity, helps to ensure the facts available to the Dogs Programme Manager are as complete as possible and reduces the chances of inappropriate dog/handler behaviour being repeated.


18

Standards

1. The Dogs Programme Manager or Certifier investigates all incidents and appropriate action is taken after discussion with the line manager.

2. In deciding what action to take, the Dogs Programme Manager or Certifier takes into account:

• The circumstances of the incident;

• The explanation of the handler;

• The severity of the consequences; and

• Any previous incidents involving the dog or the handler.

3. The Dogs Programme Manager or Certifier may decide to revoke a certificate after a severe incident or repeated minor to moderate incidents representing, but not limited to, the following situations:

• A team presents a risk to target and non-target species by continuing to work.

• A team consistently fails to detect the target species.

• A team inadvertently causes damage to, injures, or kills a target or non-target species.

• A particular dog/handler team is repeatedly/frequently involved in incidents.

• A handler ill-treats a dog.

• An accident occurs, resulting in serious damage to the dog.

4. When a certificate is revoked, the dog/handler team can no longer be involved with any dog related projects on public conservation land or with projects that require DOC permission to handle protected species.

Process

Step Responsibility Action/s Detail

1. Report incident

Any person who witnesses an incident involving a certified

dog/handler team

Complete and forward an incident report to the Dogs Programme Manager or Certifier at earliest

opportunity.

See Appendix 7.7 Dog handler incident report for

the report form.

2. Suspend certificate


Suspend certificate pending incident investigation

Enter information onto dogs programme database

and Handlers’ Lists.

3. Investigate Incident


• Discuss the incident/situation with all parties involved.

• Consult with Dogs Programme Manager or one other certifier.

• Decide action based on three possible outcomes.

See Outcomes -Investigate incident

4. Notify parties of


Discuss outcome with line manager and inform handler of action to be

Enter information onto dogs programme database


19

outcome. taken (it may be more appropriate for line manager to do this).

and Handlers’ Lists.

Outcomes - Investigate incident

Option 1:

• Confirm certificate, where necessary with agreed conditions or actions to address factors that led to the incident.

Option 2:

• Certificate reassessment, follow the interim/full certification process.

Option 3:

• Revoke certificate following investigation. This option is usually only applicable when there have been repeated incidents or a severe case of negligence causing harm or death.

See 3.6 Appealing a Decision.

5. Dog welfare and etiquette


WHY?/CONSEQUENCE

All dogs must be treated and cared for in a humane manner in accordance with the Animal Welfare Act 1999, including any relevant Codes of Welfare made under the Act and

its administration.

Handler and Certifier/s The Animal Welfare Act 1999 imposes obligations on every person who owns or is in charge of dogs. A code of welfare has been issued pursuant to section 75 of the Act and provides guidance on how to comply with the legislative requirements. Owners and those in charge of dogs must comply with the minimum standards in the code and the general provisions of the Act.

In instances where dog handlers do not conform to the standards outlined in this section, an incident should be reported and investigated as outlined in Section 4.

This section highlights key standards for dog handlers involved in the conservation dogs programme. However, it does not replace or supersede any legal obligations regarding dog ownership and care.

• The Animal Welfare (Dogs) Code of Welfare 2010 can be located through the following link: www.biosecurity.govt.nz/animal-welfare/codes/dogs.


20

5.1 Dog health requirements


WHY?/CONSEQUENCE

Standards for dog health requirements must be met.

Handler The standards interpret and consolidate the controls applied under the Animal Welfare (Dog) Welfare Code 2010 and

advice from veterinary experts.

Standard

An annual health programme must be kept up-to-date. For island work please refer to the Island Biosecurity Best Practice Manual, section 1.9 Dog vaccination (docdm-20171).

Procedure

Dog handlers should first check the annual health programme below and, if further information is needed, check with the Dogs Programme Manager before arranging an appointment with their vet.

Annual health programme

Vaccination requirements

• Canine parvovirus type 2 virus;

• Canine distemper virus;

• Canine adenovirus type 2;

• Canine parainfluenza;

• Leptospira interrogans var. ictgerohaemmorrhagiae; copenhageni; pomona and hardjo

• Bordetella bronchiseptica

Use:

• Canvac 4 in 1 +, Lepto 3 way +, Canvac lepto +, Protech Tracguard or as recommended by the vet.

Internal parasites (worms)

• Cestode (tapeworm)

• Nematode (roundworm)

Treatment:

• Wormed 3 monthly with anti-cestodal and anti-nematode drugs e.g. Drontal Plus (praziquantel, pyrantel pamoate, febantel) or monthly if they normally live in a sheep measles area (Cysticerus ovis)

• Consider worming dogs 48 hours before going on a farm to prevent the spread of sheep measles.

External parasites

• Fleas, ticks and ear mites.

Treatment:

• Treat regularly, according to manufacturers’ instructions, to control external parasites e.g. with Frontline top spot or Advantage flea adulticide.

dme://docdm-20171/


21

All records of examinations, vaccinations and treatments should be updated on a medical record card.

5.2 Working dog and handler etiquette


WHY?/CONSEQUENCE

Standards outlined for working dog (and handler) etiquette must be met.

Handler The standards interpret and consolidate the controls applied under the Dog Control Act 1996 and Animal Welfare (Dog) Welfare Code 2010 and associated

departmental regulations.

Pest and protected species detection dogs are trained as working dogs and are not primarily companion animals (pets). To minimise confusion or stress for working dogs, dog etiquette in a private (non-work) situation should be consistent with the workplace.

The standards described below are aimed at:

• Minimising harm and/or interference to the public and wildlife (both target and non-target species);

• Protecting New Zealand's biosecurity; and

• Ensuring the welfare of the dogs.

Standards

1. Dogs are kept under control at all times, they are not a nuisance to people, and do not display aggressive behaviour towards people or other dogs.

2. Dogs always wear a muzzle while working in any area that may contain native ground-dwelling birds or any other species of concern; and where toxins are suspected.

3. Dogs wear a conservation dog vest at all times when working on public conservation land. (Vests are available from Certifiers.)

4. Handlers ensure both they and their dog meet any quarantine requirements when travelling to pest-free islands and other sites (e.g. mainland islands).

5. Adequate kennelling is provided, i.e. appropriate for the climatic conditions of the area/region in which the dog will be working.

6. Dogs are not permitted inside public huts managed by the Department, and working dog/handler teams employed by the Department must be guided by this rule. For example; while it may be acceptable for a cold and wet dog working on a sub-Antarctic island to be dried out in front of a fire, it is not acceptable for that dog to be kennelled inside the living quarters.


22

5.3 Transporting dogs


WHY?/CONSEQUENCE

Standards for transporting dogs must be met.

Handler The standards interpret and consolidate the controls applied under the Animal Welfare (Dog) Welfare Code 2010 and

associated departmental regulations.

In addition to the minimum standards outlined in the Animal Welfare (Dogs) Code of Welfare 2010 (issued under the Animal Welfare Act 1999), staff should apply the Code’s recommended best practice regarding the transport of dogs wherever practicable.

Standards

1. Dogs are not allowed inside the cab or any passenger compartment of departmental vehicles

2. Dogs may be transported in a departmental station wagon providing the dog is contained inside a cage/box that sits in the luggage compartment behind the rear seat.

3. Dogs are provided with adequate ventilation when being carried in a vehicle.

4. Dogs are not left unattended in a vehicle in conditions where the dog is likely to suffer from heat stress

5. Dogs are restrained when transported inside a ute canopy, preferably within a cage or box.

6. If a dog is transported on the back of an open vehicle it is safely and securely restrained. In particular, the securing or lead chain is:

• Attached so that the cab provides protection against the wind; and

• Long enough to permit the dog to stand, lie down and move about but short enough to prevent the dog’s legs from reaching the side of the tray so that it cannot fall off or enter the cab of the vehicle.

7. Dogs transported by helicopter are restrained in strict accordance with the requirements for Internal/External Loads in the Helicopter Safety SOP (docdm-208219).

8. When dogs are transported by any other means the handler decides if the conditions imposed by the carrier are acceptable. At all times the welfare of the dog is paramount.



dme://docdm-208219/


23

6. Appointing certifiers

Certifiers are appointed through internal approach, only, according to the needs of the conservation dogs programme. There is no external process by which prospective handlers may apply to become certifiers.

Assessment criteria

The following skills and experience are considered critical to the role of a certifier and will inform the selection process:

• Experience and knowledge of target and non-target species.

• Appropriate experience as a certified dog handler.

• Strong working knowledge of this SOP and other relevant DOC procedures/documents.

• Good communication, mentoring, and decision making skills.

• Ability to maintain a national perspective.

Consideration will also be given to the geographic distribution of certifiers throughout the country relative to the distribution of handlers.


24

7. Appendices

7.1 Certified dog handlers and dogs programme contacts (docdm-1292127)

7.2 Conservation dogs programme fact sheet (DOC-2185771)

7.3 Dog handler application (docdm-342115)

7.4 Dog handler selection interview (docdm-342146)

7.5 Interim certificate assessment (docdm-368123)

7.6 Full certificate assessment (docdm-720174)

7.7 Dog handler incident report (docdm-342129)

7.8 Request for pest detection dog assistance (docdm-342112)

dme://docdm-1292127/

dme:\\doc-2185771

dme://docdm-342115/

dme://docdm-342146/

dme://docdm-368123/

dme:\\DOCDM-720174

dme://docdm-342129/

dme://docdm-342112/