sar dog news - n-sda.org vol 9... · 15.05.2015 · sar dog news may 2015 published by the...

SAR Dog News May 2015 Published by the National Search Dog Alliance Vol. 9, No. 5

The Voice of K-9 Search and Rescue @ n-sda.org Founding members: K-9 Thor, Eileen M. Nobles, Susan Bulanda, K-9 Roo, Leslie Godchaux, Brian R. Hendrickson, Continental Kennel Club, Inc., K-9 River, K-9 Persha, Jan Thompson, K-9 Cali, Peggy Ann Buchman, K-9 Geist

CONTENTS Article page 2015 BOD Meeting Dates 1 Hero Dog Contest 1 Teams Pass NSDA Tests 2 Tennessee SAR Dog Legislation 2 Firearms Evidence Standard 2 PODCASTS 3 OSO, WA Mudslide One Year Reunion 3 K-9 Officer Down 4 NSDA Covers Other Agencies 5 NSDA Tests are Passed 5 More NSDA Tests are Passed 6 Hero Dog Contestants 6 Canine Flu Outbreak 7 Update: Etan Patz 7 Pythiosis or Swamp Cancer 8 More on Swamp Fever 9 Hoarding Hazards 10 New Products 11 Upcoming NSDA Tests 12 Other Agency Tests 12 Presentation of Records vs Credibility 13 Kibbles and Bits 15 Purina Hall of Fame 16 Last Howl 19 Board of Directors 20 Training, Seminars & Conferences 21

2015 BOARD MEETING DATES

June 4 July 2 August 6 Contact Secretary, Julie Gibson ([email protected]) for the call in number for the meetings.

Bucky says

Think

PAWS-itively

American Humane Association

HERO DOG CONTEST May 15th last day to vote before semi- finals

Three of the twelve entries will now be chosen as semi-finalists. Those will enter a second round of voting starting on May 25th to determine the finalist for the category. A prize of $2,500 will be given to NSDA if a NSDA partner is the finalist in the Search and Rescue category. They will then go on to the grand finals in Los Angeles. Go to: www.herodogawards.org to vote. Select the category: “Search and Rescue” Choose your most outstanding candidate and vote daily. See Page 6.

SAR Dog News, May 2015

Intermountain Search Dog Teams Pass Land HRD

Alida King and Dezzi

Robyn Moug and Max

Tennessee House Bill 1291/ Senate Bill 1114

Bill Title: As introduced, states that knowingly killing a police dog, fire dog, search and rescue dog, or police horse shall be a Class E felony, unless the offense would be a higher classification based on the animal’s value, in which case, knowingly killing the animal shall be punished as theft of property. The bill passed the Senate 32/0 and passed the House 94/2. The bill has now been transferred to the Governor for action.

FIREARMS EVIDENCE STANDARD

NSDA needs more K-9 teams to beta test the Firearms Evidence Standard so that we can work out any problems before releasing it for the general public. If you are interested in being part of the beta test, you will need to train your dog on the following items:

Dismantled Hand Gun or Shotgun Brass Shells (3 each) Shotgun Shell (1 each) Gun Oil (1 teaspoon) Magazine (loaded or empty Gun Powder both black and smokeless (Min. 2 oz.- Max 6 oz.) Examples: Blue Dot, Green Dot, Red Dot, Bullsey, IMR SR4756, IMR 700-X, Goex Black Rifle Powder. (Gunpowder may be placed in glass jar with vented lid or contained in mesh fabric.)

For more information and to take part in this study, contact Cat Best at [email protected]


NSDA PODCASTS ARE HERE

Listen and WIN a prize The May 15 Search Dog Podcast, Episode 30, features an interview with Dr. John Berg, a veterinarian from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. He speaks about spleen tumors, a common canine disease. Listen to the show for an opportunity to win a Glowdoggie lighted LED collar. These German engineered, fully waterproof collars are used by search and rescue teams all over the world. You can read about the product at www.glowdoggie.com but you can only win if you listen to the podcast. The podcast can be found on Podbean http://sardoc.podbean.com/e/episode-30-search-dog-podcasts-nsda/ You can subscribe and download the Podbean app. The podcast is also on iTunes. Just search the store for Search Dog Podcast NSDA and choose the black logo with SEARCHDOG PODCAST in big block letters. This is the NEW feed; if you are subscribed to the old feed, you must subscribe to the new feed to get this and future episodes. Future topics include:

June 15: Steve Hinch, author of Outdoor Navigation With GPS.

Please listen to the shows and email feedback, suggestions for topics and future speakers to PODCAST host, Eva Briggs at [email protected]

OSO Mudslide 1 year Reunion In Washington State

On the anniversary weekend of the OSO Landslide in Snohomish County, State of Washington March 21 and 22, the SCVSAR (Snohomish County Volunteer Search and Rescue) K-9 team hosted a Regional Weekend Event for close to sixty (60) participants, most of them K-9 teams that deployed on the OSO Landslide last year. Teams came from multiple states and jurisdictions to spend time together remembering, getting closure, training together, enjoying camaraderie, exchanging best practices and spending several hours with our State SAR Coordinator, Chris Long, sharing perspectives and discussing lessons learned from last year’s tragedy. The weekend began with a Wilderness Survival night attended by 18 two-leggeds and quite a few four-leggeds. The downpour didn’t start until all were peacefully resting in shelters. After rising at 5 a.m. and eating a quick breakfast of eggs and sausages, more than a dozen hiders - supposedly lost mushroom pickers - were placed for the search scenarios. Teams were rotated through airscent scenarios and seven human remains detection assignments that utilized an innovative self-managed design. Technology

SAR Dog News, May 2015 allowing all field teams to be shown real time on the computer was showcased. Saturday evening Suzanne Elshult, the event coordinator, hosted a dinner and social evening at her home. Sunday some team members and several visiting members attended the OSO Remembrance while others spent half a day in a Discussion Forum. Several individuals and other groups received recognition for helping build a stronger, more united K-9 community in the region this last year including the Northwest Disaster Search Dogs, Scott Lee from Mountainwave SAR K-9, OR, Cat Best from Walla Walla SAR K-9 and Sally Olsen from Kitsap ABC SAR K-9. After this Regional Event many K-9 teams that deployed on OSO have found a sense of closure and networking at the event will go a long way toward continued regional collaboration with other K-9 teams. Here is a link to a video highlighting the weekend: http://1drv.ms/1GJHNwC **K9 Cop Magazine also just published an article written by Suzanne Elshult, SCVSAR K-9 and Marcia Koenig, KCSD on Search and Rescue K-9 Lessons Learned: OSO, Washington Landslide/ Follow this link: http://www.k9copmagazine.com/whats-inside

Ligonier Twp., PA. K-9 officer Killed in Head On

When 40-year-old Lieutenant Eslary and his K-9, Blek, were patrolling just before 2:00 a.m. on May 5, 2015, they were struck head-on by a SUV. The vehicle was being driven by 31-year-old Clair Fink who was traveling east in the west bound lane on the highway.

“The Ligonier Twp. officer was traveling in the department vehicle with his K-9 partner in the correct lanes of Route 30. The vehicle that struck him was driving westbound on that divided highway,” Trooper Steve Limani said. It was also ascertained that the man driving the SUV was drunk. Eslary was transported to Excela Health Latrobe hospital by ambulance where he was pronounced dead at 2:46 a.m. K-9 Blek was sent for surgery at an animal hospital in Monroeville. The K-9, bonded to his partner, refused to leave the lieutenant’s side. Eslary’s wife. Mary Beth, had to go to the scene to help officers get the dog to leave his partner’s side and be transported to the animal hospital. The 6-year-old German shepherd was being held in the intensive care unit. “He is relatively stable. He did have trouble with his back legs initially after the accident, but he’s able to bear weight and walk on them,” Dr. Megan Kaplan, a critical care specialist, told KDKA-TV. “He is not paralyzed at this time.” She said the medical team is trying to keep Blek calm so he can get stronger after the trauma. Eslary leaves behind his wife Mary Beth, and six children.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette


SAR Dog News NOW COVERS OTHER AGENCIES

In a cooperative effort, SAR Dog News will now cover testing and seminar information for other teams that would like to join into cross posting in newsletters and on their web pages. For the good of the K-9 community, we feel this will have a mutual benefit for all handlers. Please join us in getting out the news. Look for postings on the Seminar and Testing listing pages.

Maia Halvorsen & Cleo Pass Trailing II in WA.

Maia and Cleo, a Chinook/Kelpie cross, are members of the Summit to Sound SAR team near Bellingham, WA. She credits her teammates and friends for all of their help toward the NSDA certification. For their real job, Maia is a tugboat captain and Cleo is part of the crew, working off of the Washington coast.

Dave Ferguson and K-9 Lily pass

Land HRD in Idaho Falls

Heidi Woog Passes Land HRD

In Idaho Falls

Cat Best and K-9 Izzy pass Land HRD in Boise, ID


Julie Gibson with Libby passed Land HRD

Andy Stehling with Riffle, and Cam Daggett. Andy and Riffle passed Area I

on May 8, 2015.

Area Search for Live and Large Source Cadaver – Beta Testing

Ann Moser with Watson, Rena Ferguson with Kai,

JoMay Pescador with Kodiak and Roy Pescador with Friday.

Dave Forker with K-9 Loki passed Area II

Evaluator Ann Moser

HERO DOG AWARD CONTESTANTS All NSDA Charity Partners Go to: www.herodogawards.org to see their personal stories and to cast your vote. GLORYGLORY FERDINAND CAYMUSCAYMUS


CANINE FLU OUTBREAK A canine flu outbreak has sickened many dogs in the Midwest, and veterinarians are cautioning pet owners to keep their dogs from getting close to other four-legged friends.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Veterinary Medicine says the virus has sickened at least 1,000 dogs in Illinois, Wisconsin, Ohio and Indiana. Recent tests from the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory have identified the strain as H3N2. Clinical assistant professor Keith Poulsen says it’s not yet known how effective current vaccines are against this strain which is now considered closely related to Asian strains. Canine influenza virus (CIV) is one of the viral causes of kennel cough. If your dog is exhibiting any of the following signs, please contact your vet immediately:

• persistent coughing or labored breathing

• runny nose • sneezing • clear nasal discharge progressing to

thick, yellowish-green mucus • eye discharge • lethargy • reduced or loss of appetite • variable fever • rapid/difficult breathing

Experts say a small percentage will develop more severe symptoms. CIV is easily transmitted between dogs through a combination of aerosols, droplets and direct contact with respiratory secretions. The virus does not survive for a long time in the environment, so dogs usually get CIV when they are in close proximity to other

infectious dogs. Any dog which interacts with large numbers of canines is at increased risk for exposure. This would include situations such as boarding, dog parks, or other activities where contact with respiratory secretions may occur. If CIV is quickly diagnosed and treated, the fatality rate is quite low. Deaths are usually caused by secondary complications, such as pneumonia. It is very important that dogs with CIV receive proper veterinary care. It is recommended that you schedule a test outside the veterinary clinic and not bring dogs into areas where they could interact with other dogs. Veterinarians say neither canine strain is related to bird flu or is contagious to humans, but the H3N2 strain could sicken cats. These resources provide some more detailed information:

• http://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pagesorg//CanineInfluenza.aspx

• http://mediarelations.cornell.edu/2015/04/12/midwest-canine-influenza-outbreak-caused-by-new-strain-of-virus

• http://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/FAQ/Pages/Control-of-Canine-Influenza-in-Dogs.aspx

UPDATE: ETAN PATZ

On Friday, May 8, 2015, a New York judge declared a mistrial in the trial of Pedro Hernandez, who confessed to killing Etan Patz. The jury, which was in its 18th day of deliberations at state Supreme Court in Manhattan, told Justice Maxwell Wiley for a third time that it was unable to reach a unanimous verdict on the charges.


One juror refused to commit. The Prosecutor has asked for a new trial date.

Patz was the New York City boy whose 1979 disappearance changed the way the U.S. handles reports of missing and abducted children. (See SAR Dog News, June 2012 for more information.)

In 2012, Hernandez, a former deli worker, confessed to police that he choked 6-year-old Patz, stuffed him in a box and left him in a New York alley.

In 2010, the New York District Attorney’s office reopened the case into Etan’s disappearance. On May 24, 2012, New York Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly announced that a man was in custody who had implicated himself in the Patz disappearance. A law enforcement official identified the man as Pedro Hernandez and said that he had confessed to strangling Etan Patz. Hernandez, 51 at that time, had been a 19-year-old bodega worker at the time of Etan's disappearance.

Pythiosis or Swamp Cancer by Susan Bulanda

Pythiosis or Swamp cancer is an emerging tropical disease that was not seen in the United States until recently. It has only been in the US for the past ten to twenty years. When an animal is examined by a veterinarian, many veterinarians do not know what it is and will not recognize the symptoms when they see it.

This disease affects dogs, cats, horses and humans. It has been found in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, Virginia and Bermuda. According to reports it has the potential to spread to other states as well. It is most often seen in the fall and winter months. It is an algae-like fungi that enters the body through the nose/sinuses, esophagus or broken skin. It is most likely to be present in swampy areas, ponds and wetlands. However, you can be infected by it through grasses that have been in contact with wetlands, ponds, and swamps. There are two forms of Pythiosis. The GI form affects a dog’s digestive tract resulting in a thickening of the stomach and/or intestines. The symptoms include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal mass, pain and enlarged lymph nodes. The cutaneous or skin version causes lesions on the legs, tail, head, neck, and

inside the thigh. These wounds do not heal, are invasive and involve pus-filled nodules. The skin or tissue dies with the

affected area turning black and wasting away. The resulting sores are itchy and a dog will self mutilate if not treated. It is essential that early detection and treatment are administered since this disease can cause death. Even with early treatment,

SAR Dog News, May 2015 survival is poor for dogs since the disease travels through the blood stream to other parts of the body. In some cases a badly infected limb will have to be amputated to save the animal. Again, early intervention is critical with this disease. Right now there are no known shots to prevent it. SAR dog handlers are encouraged to look at pictures on line of the sores that animals get so that they can recognize it when and if they see it. Both SAR animals (dogs and horses) and people should scrub themselves carefully if they have searched in or near wetlands or swamps. While this is not fool proof, it certainly should help. Also carefully examine your animals and yourself for scratches or cuts that might have been encountered on a search and treat them immediately. For more information go to: http://www.merckmanuals.com/vet/generalized_conditions/fungal_infections/oomycosis.html http://www.akcchf.org/news-events/library/articles/pythiosis.html http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/infectious-parasitic/c_multi_pythiosis http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/12/3/05-1044_article http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&C=15&A=3174&S=0 MORE ON SWAMP FEVER

Pythiosis, is an infectious disease affecting primarily the gastrointestinal tract or skin of dogs and cats. The causative organism is Pythium insidiosum, a fungus that is in a class similar to yellow-green algae.

Large-breed dogs, especially those used in hunting or field trial work near water are at higher risk. Labrador retrievers are most commonly affected with the gastrointestinal form, and German shepherds, the cutaneous (skin) form. Young to middle-aged male dogs are most commonly affected. Those exposed to warm freshwater lakes, swamps and ponds are most commonly affected. Most infections occur in the early spring, fall and winter months. It is most common in warm humid parts of the country such as the Gulf Coast and Southern United States. Transmission is by contact with infected spores that penetrate damaged skin or tissue. The organisms grow causing severe tissue damage that may include draining wounds that won't heal and ulcerations. Thickening of the gastrointestinal tissue may be severe and cause complete obstruction. Diagnosis Baseline tests to include a complete blood count (CBC), biochemical profile and urinalysis are recommended in all patients. Serologic testing, which are blood tests that measure antibodies or the individual's response to an organism or infection, may be helpful in the diagnosis of pythiosis. Very useful and accurate ELISA and immunoblot assay tests are available at Louisiana State University. Definitive diagnosis is dependent on culture of the organism. Radiographs (X-rays) of the abdomen are recommended. Abdominal ultrasound may be helpful in certain cases. Biopsy of the affected gastrointestinal tissue or skin, and isolation of the organism is diagnostic.


Treatment The treatment of choice is wide, surgical excision of the affected area. Unfortunately, due to the advanced stage of disease that is often present, this is not possible. Surgical removal of an intestinal blockage may not cure the disease; however, it may be the only option available to relieve life-threatening signs associated with a GI blockage. Prognosis Only 1 out of 5 patients respond to medical therapy alone. Prognosis is fair if lesions can be surgically removed. Prognosis is poor if medical therapy is used alone or lesions are not surgically removable. Written by: Dr. Bari Spielman Edited by: Dr. Debra Primovic - DVM December 10,2014

HOARDING and the problems it presents for SAR K-9

handlers

Hoarding always presents safety concerns for First Responders and other Emergency Service personnel. Pennsylvania State Trooper David Lock and State Police Human

Remains Detection Canine, Cratos, found this out on a search on June 20, 2014, when trying to locate a missing woman. While originally going to be utilized to search the wooded area around the location, the team was deployed inside the residence first. There K-9 Cratos alerted in the bathroom. Lock, his handler, then observed a knee bone buried under a large pile of debris.

As there was no interior access to the bathroom, the local fire department assisted with cutting out the exterior wall (photo above). This enabled law enforcement to remove the debris and access the body. (See the July 2014 edition of the SAR Dog News for a complete article regarding this search.)

In the above instance, all responders could see the mess with which they were dealing. But what happens if the K-9 team is called out at night or even after a fire?

A primary way to stay safe is slow down and be cautious. Utilization of the K-9 in any hoarding situation calls for caution and sloooow searching like working on any unstable surface.

Large amounts of material accumulate behind doors and at windows which increases the difficulty of gaining entrance to the premises. Even after entry, clearing safe pathways can be dangerous.

Be aware of limited mobility and do not advance too deeply into the cluttered space. While keeping a careful watch on the canine, the handler should be mindful of their own safety as well.

Once inside, the cluttered interior presents many hazards. Debris can easily be dislodged and become the beginning of any avalanche of objects causing injury from falling debris and blocking egress. Gear can become entangled in the rubbish which is one reason


it is essential that the handler wear little to no gear and the K-9 none, not even a collar.

While collapse potential always exists in a hoarding location’s interior, it is especially predominant after a fire. Often the HRD K-9 is called in to search for a potentially missing inhabitant after the fire has been extinguished. Water streams used to extinguish the flames have been absorbed by the debris inside the structure. This increase in weight adds to the burden already being borne by the floor joists and could lead to a sudden collapse especially where lightweight construction exists as in the trailer in the above picture.

Also be aware that climbing on top of the rubble may place any searcher, human or K-9, in line with or above windowsills. Therefore interior searchers must be extremely aware of this potential danger. Personnel outside the building should also be aware of this risk and be ready to assist as quickly as possible.

In summary, working in a hoarding situation is very similar to any type of rubble/disaster work except that the handler and K-9 will probably be working on surfaces different from concrete, steel and rebar. However the same slow, methodical method of working for the K-9 team applies in both situations. And safety is paramount.

Source: VFIS News

NEW PRODUCTS The following products may be useful to the SAR community: CARRIER FOR CAMERA The StrapShot EV1 by Cotton Carrier allows photographers to carry compact, mirrorless, four-thirds and full-sized Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras, large lens and many

other optics. The carrier attaches to wrist, camera bag or pants belt and features a tether which acts as a preventative to accidental drops. Cameras and other optics are easy to reach and hands are kept

free. For more information, see www.cottoncarrier.com EQUIPMENT TRANSPORT Transporting SAR gear as well as K-9s and their equipment can be a challenge even with a large SUV. A new STACK RACK from Viking Solutions incorporates a trailer-hitch-based basket that will accommodate at 70-qt. cooler in the bottom compartment and a vertical post for fastening other bulky items such as a tent/tarp. Removal of a single hinge pin allows access to the interior of the vehicle. See www.vikings1.com for more information. CLOSURE PROTECTANT Water-resistant Snap-Stick can keep snaps and zippers on clothing and most other objects lubricated and protected. It comes in

a tube similar to lip balm and operates with a twist for accurate application. It works best on snaps

when applied to the male stud then snapped to lubricate and protect both sides. On zippers, the pull lubricates the zipper when Snap-Stick is applied to the teeth on both sides. It can also be applied to a key to protect the inside of locks or on drill bits to aid in their use. For more information, see www.shurhold.com

Source America’s First Freedom


UPCOMING NSDA TESTS Visit www.n-sda.org for prerequisites and standards.

June 4, 5, 6 LIBBY, MONTANA Trailing Terry Crooks at: [email protected] June 19, 20, 21 SHOW LOW, ARIZONA Trailing Michelle Denton [email protected] July 17, 18 & 19 CODY, WYOMING Land HRD K.T. Irwin at: Water HRD [email protected] September 11,12,13 TITUSVILLE, PENNSYLVANIA Trailing Area Land HRD, if requested Heather Proper-VanValkenberg at: Water HRD, if requested [email protected] October 9, 10, 11 LUPTON, MICHIGAN Area Victoria Thompson Trailing [email protected] Land HRD Water HRD

UPCOMING OTHER AGENCY TESTS

May 29, 30, 31 HOLLY SPRINGS, MS Andrew Olney SARTECH II [email protected] June 12, 13, 14 RED LODGE, MONTANA Janet Yatchak SARTECH II [email protected] July 19, 20, 21 WINDBER, PENNSYLVANIA John Boburchuk SARTECH II [email protected] September 14 COLUMBIA FALLS, MONTANA Kim Gilmore IPWDA [email protected]


PRESENTATION OF RECORDS CAN REFLECT ON

JOB CREDIBILITY AND PERFORMANCE

By John Peters This article was originally published in the September-December 2014 issue of Police K-9 Magazine and is reprinted with permission. www.policek9magazine.com

For thirty four years, I have litigated matters involving police officers. Whether police officers were my clients or my opponents, their records were of vital importance to the outcome of those cases. When I look at a police officer’s records, I learn a great deal about the person I am dealing with and what type of witness he/she will make in court. Here are some of the things your records tell me about you.

“Laziness in preparing records may translate into laziness in other aspects of job performance, including training.”

Poor Grammar and Spelling If I see poor spelling or grammar in a police

officer’s records, it suggests that this officer does not devote a great deal of attention to detail. Many cases are won or lost on the small details. Poor spelling and grammar also suggest someone who does not communicate as well as they need to. If you communicate poorly, you increase the chances for a negative outcome for you and the people with whom you deal. Poor spelling and grammar also suggest laziness. Laziness in preparing records may translate into laziness in other aspects of job performance, including training. Electronic records can eliminate some of this. Spell Check and Grammar Check may become your best friends. Use them. Missing Information Records which have gaps in information hurt you in several ways. First, it tells me that you are not thorough in completing basic tasks which means you have probably overlooked other important steps in training or in the field. The information not provided may have actually helped you, but you simply did not bother to include it. Secondly, it could represent an attempt to deliberately omit harmful information. Thirdly, it may undermine other information within the same record.

“Nobody likes to prepare records, but taking the time and effort to do so neatly, accurately and regularly will pay dividends for you if you end up in court.”

For example, your record describes a successful outcome, but cannot account for how you managed to achieve it. Finally, gaps in record keeping suggest gaps in your thought process which may apply beyond the ministerial act of record keeping. There may have been something stressful going on in your personal life at the time. That would explain the gap in the records, but may also

SAR Dog News, May 2015 provide a clue that you were not thinking clearly at the time of the incident. Irregular Format or Time Intervals

Consistency is a major factor in establishing your creditability in litigation. Records which are not regularly kept will hurt your creditability. They suggest confusion and a lack of organization. Your records should follow some type of standardized formatting. A form with fixed categories of information is best. Avoid mixing handwritten reporting with computer generated reporting within the same type of record. In fact, avoid handwritten reporting completely if possible. Illegible handwriting is not your friend. It suggests that you are careless in performing your tasks, and makes review of the records difficult if not impossible. Certain records, such as training records, should be produced at regular intervals. If these records are not regularly recurring it suggests the suppression of negative information, laziness, lack of concern for the purpose for which the records are kept and perhaps that training has been irregular as well.

Lack of Contemporaneous Record Keeping

I can tell when a record was generated long after the event. It is a piece of a puzzle which will not fit with the rest. The further in time from the event, the less reliable the records. That is because the human mind retains less detail and recalls events differently as time passes. Records created long after-the-fact are obvious to an experienced trial attorney and will work directly against one who offers up such records. Invariably, they will contradict other records and testimony, thereby ruining your creditability on that issue. If you put off preparing your records it suggests that you put off other important tasks because you simply believe that you have better things to do. This makes it appear that you value yourself over encounter with the individual you are now in litigation against.

Condition of Your Records

This applies only to paper records and is another argument in favor of electronic records. If your records are dog-eared, coffee stained, torn or crumpled, this suggests that you are not a careful person in recordkeeping, training or on the street. Soiled or damaged records imply a disregard for the information contained within the records and maybe for the activity the records were designed to record. Records which are sloppy suggest a mindset which is sloppy. That will not bode well when it comes time to appear for deposition or trial testimony.

Conclusion

Your records will tell an experienced attorney many things about you. Make sure the story they tell is one of a professional who is proud of what he/she has done and determined to document it. Nobody likes to prepare records, but taking the time and effort to do so neatly, accurately and regularly will pay dividends for you if you end up in court.

John M. Peters is an attorney who has been practicing police liability ��law in the state and federal courts for more than thirty years. When not in court, John participates in decoy work, tracking, aggression and obedience for sport and at the many police canine workshops he attends. John’s legal and canine backgrounds led to requests for him to serve as an author, instructor and legal advisor to the police canine community where his canine legal seminars are in high demand. Contact John at: [email protected]


KIBBLES & BITS

by Susan Bulanda

To my Loyal readers – Do you have any subjects that you would like me to cover? Send them to me at [email protected] with K & B in the subject line. Dog Breeds for SAR In the March K&B I promised to review some of the breeds of dogs that I have found to make great SAR dogs or that I feel have potential to be good SAR dogs. Beauceron and Border Collie – The Beauceron is in essence the French Shepherd. I trained and owned the first Beauceron and Border Collie for SAR in the US. After reviewing all of the dog breeds, this is why I picked these two breeds, which at the time, were virtually unknown. Only serious working dog people involved in herding knew about Border Collies. As for the Beauceron, they were for all intent and purposes, unknown in the US. At the time there were (estimated) about twelve in the country. I knew about these breeds because I was one of the few trainers who specialized in working with rare breeds of dogs. First, they both have a natural instinct to go out on their own (on command), find the sheep and

bring them back to the shepherd or fold. This meant that these breeds were capable of working on their own and making decisions. Second, they are both hardy dogs, capable of handling severe weather. In the case of the Border Collie, the breed has a variety of coat types and sizes, making them able to adapt to various terrain and weather conditions. Third, they both have working coats. Dogs that are bred

for true work typically have coarser coats that are designed to shed dirt and not pick up seeds such as burrs. This is not only easier for the handler to keep the dog clean but easier on the dog since they suffer less pain from burrs and debris between their toes, under their legs and around their ears and eyes.

(Left) Beauceron foot with characteristic double dew claw.

SAR Dog News, May 2015 For example the difference in the coat and size of the dogs between a field English Setter and a show English Setter is easy to see in a photo.

Field English Setter Show English Setter Fourth, they both are bred to cover miles in a day. Typically a single Beauceron will work larger herds (100+ animals) than the Border Collie. Border Collie’s will work in pairs with larger herds. Both breeds have the stamina to work all day and with a rest at night and keep going until the job is done. For those who do not know what sheep herding involves, the dog will move around the herd to either keep the herd in one location, or to move the herd to another location in a large group. This means that for every linear mile traveled, they cover three or four times that distance. This is very similar to the way an airscent dog will quarter a sector looking for scent. Fifth, both breeds are easy to train, although the Beauceron is a harder dog than the Border Collie requiring a firmer handler. Firm however, does not mean harsh. A Beauceron will not tolerate harsh training methods. Border Collies need a softer training method. Both do well with positive training techniques. A firm “No” is all that is needed for a correction. Sixth, both breeds have been doing SAR work in Europe since before WWI. Thus they have proven adaptable to SAR working conditions and more importantly, they have proven that they can adapt their natural instincts to other types of work without conflict. Seventh, both breeds are agile. The Beauceron is very powerful and able to “turn on a dime” when running full speed. This is unusual in a dog the size of a Beauceron (90 – 110 lbs). I watched my Beauceron leap over an eight foot chain link fence from a stand-still. He lowered his rear and leaped straight up and over. The Border Collie being smaller is also very agile but not as powerful physically as a Beauceron. This is in part due to the size difference. Eighth, both breeds have proven scenting ability. They search for and find missing livestock in all weather. In snow storms sheep will gather together and get buried under the snow and will stay there and freeze to death. The Beauceron and Border Collie can scent them out, break them out of the snow and bring them home. Ninth, they are known for their loyalty to their family. They form a close working bond with their handler and can read the handler very well.

SAR Dog News, May 2015 Tenth, both breeds (at the time I owned them) were free of congenital diseases and illnesses that are associated with many breeds/dogs today. Eleventh, both breeds are very intelligent, understand concepts easily and are capable of adapting on their own to overcome obstacles in order to get the job done. The Pros and Cons of each breed: Beauceron – Their large size makes them difficult to transport, especially if they are injured and have to be carried for any length of time. They are a large breed, being tall rather than short and stocky. The Beauceron is wonderful with anything, human or animal that is small, defenseless or weak. They are exceptional with children. They can be very protective and will attack without training if the family is threatened. However, they are not quick to bite, rather will size up the situation first, preferring to warn before a bite. They are very powerful and agile, making it difficult to confine them with a fence. Border Collie – Because they come in a range of sizes and coat types, it is easy to find the type of Border Collie that suits your location. They are often not good with children since the breed was bred solely to work and not for temperament, so it is important to find a breeder who has suitable pups/dogs that have a sweet temperament. Even a Border Collie with a good temperament might “grip” children’s ankles if they run around. For this reason early training is essential for Border Collie pups. Border Collies will grip the hock of sheep to move those who are stubborn. This instinct is so ingrained in the breed that they will do it to almost anything that is moving. It is not a sign of aggression or temperament issues for this breed, but a case of doing their job as their instincts dictate. Border Collies tend to chase things like cars, bikes, joggers etc. if the dogs are not trained early. Border Collies are easy to transport since they average in size from about 35 -50 lbs. They are very agile and love to work, but they must have a job to do. A good working Border Collie is not hyper but can turn it off when not working.

Color in both breeds is important. At one time the Beauceron was primarily black and tan. Recently some breeders learned that they could sell more pups and get more money for dogs that have the harlequin markings. It is wise to avoid dogs that have the merle, piebald and harlequin markings. Today Border Collies are divided into three basic types all with the same name. There is the true working Border Collie which is the best for SAR work. These dogs are typically registered with a stock dog registry such as the National Stock Dog Registry, International Sheepdog Society, American-International Border Collie Registry,

American Border Collie Association, North American Sheepdog Society, etc. They are calm working dogs, which are nothing like the active dogs with which many people are familiar.

SAR Dog News, May 2015 There are also the AKC registered Border Collies, and in my opinion these dogs have already changed from the true working Border Collie in coat, working ability and intelligence. The “show” Border Collies often have a non-working fluffier, finer coat, longer hair and many have lost the keen working instinct which is the earmark of the breed. (There is a whole other story about the AKC takeover of the Border Collie). Lastly you have the non-recognized registries. The situation with Border Collies and other breeds registered with non-recognized registries is that it isolates different gene pools. In the case of the Border Collie, the results are three different types of Border Collies. Dedicated breeders of working dogs have learned that it only takes about three (3) generations of indifferent breeding to lose a breed’s true working ability. Therefore it is important to know with whom your dog is registered. See next month’s SAR Dog News for more.

PURINA ANIMAL HALL OF FAME MEET THE 2015 CANADIAN INDUCTEES

BADGER Elgin, Ontario

BADGER, this Lab-Rottweiler mix dragged his injured owner across a frozen lake and up a hill to safety.

SAKO Kanaka Bar, British Columbia

When this king shepherd, SAKO, and his owner were thrown from a car in an accident, SAKO stayed with him fending off predators,

keeping him warm by huddling, bringing him

wood for a fire and dragging him to a nearby stream for water. NETTLE Cambridge, Ontario

NETTLE, a yellow Labrador, was one of the first Diabetic Alert Dogs to graduate from the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides and, within the first few days of being in the home of twins with Type 1

diabetes and celiac disease, NETTLE awakened their parents in middle of the night to dangerously low blood sugar in one of the girls, thereby saving her life. There have been many subsequent saves of both girls.

SAR Dog News, May 2015 BELLA Windsor, Ontario

When this Anatolian shepherd adopted from the humane society and her owner returned to their building after a walk, BELLA refused to get on the elevator and was finally able to drag her

owner to a man in desperate need of help. The elderly gentleman was having a heart attack and was found just in time. For complete information on these courageous dogs, see www.purinahalloffame.ca

THE LAST HOWL By Sue Wolff

Opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of the National Search Dog Alliance. When you’re in a position of authority, no matter what the field of endeavor, people look up to you and value your opinion, especially rookies/newbies/beginners. Therefore it’s your responsibility to give good and accurate advice along with correct information.

Officers in an organization i.e. president, secretary, etc. are not the only ones responsible for leading conscientiously. Putting this in the SAR perspective, team trainers, senior K-9 handlers and SAR/K-9 evaluators are looked up to by everyone. Beginners tend to take every word spoken by these persons as gospel. Therefore it

behooves the “leader” to consider their words carefully.

When evaluating another team/group, fairness is essential. Making comments like “that breed of dog does not make a good SAR dog” is not impartial and can give the wrong impression to other handlers.

In general SAR K-9s come from the herding and working breeds i.e. Australian shepherds, border collies, golden retrievers, etc. Normally a poodle is not considered as a SAR dog but I have trained with two standard poodles and found them to be intelligent dogs with a good work ethic that can perform well in SAR. I’ve also worked with a giant schnauzer which eventually became part of an international FEMA Task Force and searched successfully after earthquakes in Turkey as well as in locations within the United States. I’ve even heard of a dachshund being used in disaster work in Japan. Think about it: the dog is low to the ground and can easily get into really tight places...so it is possible.

Then there are Siberian huskies. Normally these dogs are not considered appropriate for SAR but I know of two who were successful search dogs, one in Florida and one in Hawaii. Knowing this breed, I would not attempt to train one for SAR but that does not mean it cannot be done. I congratulate both handlers on their patience and stick-to-it-ness.

When you’re a beginner, keep an open mind. Listen to each teacher/trainer and see what works for you. Take classes and seminars when you can. Don’t consider the word of everyone who’s been in SAR for awhile as gospel.

There are as many ways of doing things as there are SAR handlers...and, as you will discover, none agree. Again talk/train with as many as you can and then make your own

SAR Dog News, May 2015 What works for my dog may not work for yours.

The person whom I think can influence K-9 handlers the most is the testing evaluator. They can spread rumors, influence handlers in their training along with the capabilities of their dog and guide their outlook. Saying things like “that dog breed cannot do SAR” is opinionated and has no business in the certification testing process.

Evaluators must learn to be impartial about everything when they’re testing. If you must express your opinion, preface your statement with “In my opinion...” and continue to stress that it’s your own opinion throughout your statement.

On another note, investigate “rumors”. There’s one currently circulating that NSDA no longer exists. According to the rumor, NSDA went “belly up” a while ago and is no longer doing certifications. When you hear something like this, call/write/email the organization to find out the truth.

The same holds true for rumors regarding persons involved in SAR. If you can, go directly to the subject of the rumor to find out what really happened on that search or on that test. Asking witnesses may or may not be helpful and their accounts should be taken with a grain of salt.

Bottom lines: Evaluators, keep your personal opinions to yourself. Leaders, consider the significance of what you say before you say it. Beginning K-9 handlers, learn from many sources then use what works for you and your K-9. **Post Script by Sue Wolff: The article written by Suzanne Elshult, SCVSAR K-9 and Marcia Koenig, KCSD on Search and Rescue K-9 Lessons Learned: OSO, Washington Landslide in the current issue

(Feb/Mar) of K9Cop Magazine (page 62) is excellent and a must read for any SAR K-9 handler. It is comprehensive as well as educational. The ten page article is prominently featured in the magazine along with pictures, statistics and extensive data. Emergency managers and Incident Commanders can also benefit from this well written piece. Board of Directors— Norma Snelling, President, Washington

[email protected] 360-808-0894

Terry Crooks, Vice-President, Montana [email protected]

Julie Gibson, Secretary, Idaho [email protected]

Sherry Scruggs, Treasurer, Georgia [email protected]

Suzanne Elshult, Washington [email protected]

Susan Fleming, Pennsylvania [email protected]

Gloria Howard, Florida

[email protected] Jan Meyer, Missouri

[email protected] Robert Noziska, New Mexico

[email protected] Advocacy Council Susan Bulanda Frank Hancock Lisa Higgins Marcia Koenig Carol Ann Namur Larry Welker Dee Wild Arthur E. Wolff

TRAINING, SEMINARS & CONFERENCES

REACH OVER 1,300 SAR K-9 HANDLERS. LIST YOUR TRAININGS, SEMINARS AND CONFERENCES IN THE

SAR DOG NEWS Contact Temporary Editor Norma Snelling at [email protected]

Training, Seminars & Conferences Continued May 15 – 17, Washington State Search and Rescue Conference, For information: wasaron.org/ May 16-17, K-9 Credentialing Test, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected] May 18 – 20, Cadaver Dog Training- Level I, For information: www.hrddog.wcu.edu May 22 – 24, Cadaver Dog Training – Level II, For information: www.hrddog.wcu.edu May 28 – 30, Trailing & Air Scent K-9s for Austistic children/adults & Dementia/Alzheimer’s, Collettsville, NC. For Information: Laura Livingston [email protected] , 828-234-9813 June 4 - 7, Beginning to Advanced HRD, Camp Reed, Spokane, Washington For information: www.shekinahk-9.org June 12 - 13, Scenarios Workshop, Cody, Wyoming. For information, go to Northwest K-9 Search and Recovery (NWK9SAR.com) and click on training. June 12 - 14, SAR Conference, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected] June 18 – 21, Tracking, Chester County, PA. K-9 Detection and Search Foundation/Delaware Valley S & R, For information see DELVARSAR.ORG. June 26 - 28, Beginning/Introduction to Canine Water Search, Western Montana For information: Deb Termenstein at [email protected] June 27 - 28, Ground Search Technician, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected] July 3 - 4 Annual Water HRD Training Cody, Wyoming Contact K.T. Irwin at [email protected] or go to NWK9SAR.com and click on training.

Training, Seminars & Conferences Continued June 27 - 28, Advanced Disaster Techniques for K-9s, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected] July 11 - 12, Water Cadaver Search Techniques for K-9s, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected] July 24 - 26, Beginning/Introduction to Canine Water Search, Western Montana For information: Deb Termenstein at [email protected] July 25 - 26, Intermediate Air Scenting Techniques for K-9s, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected] August 1, Crime Scene Operations – Blood Borne Pathogens, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected] August 2, K-9 Pretest, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For more information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected] August 7-9, Advanced Topics in Canine Water Search, Western Montana For information: Deb Tirmenstein at: [email protected] August 29-30, Advanced Land Cadaver Techniques for K-9s, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For more information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected] September 11-13, Intermediate Canine Water Search, Western Montana For information: Deb Tirmenstein at: [email protected] September 17 - 20, North American Search Dog Network (NASDN) Fall Seminar, Camp Kitaki, Louisville, NE. For information and registration: www.nasdn.org September 19-20, K-9 Credentialing Test, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For more information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected] September 27 – October 2, Appomattox, Virginia. Beginning and Advanced Trailing/Tracking, HRD (Land and Water) and Air Scent. Web site www.olddominionsar.com/ or call Ronnie 3360744-5246 or Tim/Suzy 615-452-9116 October 4 – 9, CSAR 2015 Seminar, Camp ASCCA, Jacksons Gap, Alabama Area, Trailing, HRD Land and HRD Water. For information: www.nasdak9.og/CSAR2015 or www.CSAR.ORG October 9-11, Canine Water Search, Level TBA, Western Montana For information: Deb Tirmenstein at [email protected] October 10, Skills Day, Camp Atterbury, Edinburgh, Indiana. For more information call Lillian Hardy at 812-526-0013 or e-mail [email protected]

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