April2017 12th Edition/Newsletter (Role of the K9 Handler)

The Role of the Canine Handler Handler Qualification  Ultimately, it would be beneficial for a potential canine handler to be experienced in SWAT or to be in a position of TL (team lead), for a SWAT-style arrangement.  Why?  Those with this type of background have applicable working experience and a clear understanding of the big picture of tactics and multi-tasking under pressure.  […]

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Certification Series/1.1

Series begins with standard Certification areas that in my opinion should be pulled due to the fact they mirror the Sport Dog mentality.  They are the most unrealistic scenarios that a canine team would experience on the street. Not only are these areas difficult for trainers to train, but also for handlers to keep sustainment […]

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Certification Series (Intro)

In no way am I bashing the pioneers of the working canine world. The industry has come a long way from where it started.  That being said, the industry has plateaued.  Case in Point:  Certification.  Most canine programs today train all year to certify. That concept works, only if certification mirrors real world concepts.  Does […]

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January/WK23 2017/Blog – Canine Tactical Gear Series (#9)

Last week I introduced the C-IFAK (Canine – Individual First Aid Kit).  I recommend storing the C-IFAK with first line gear in a cargo pocket on the handler’s support side. The C-IFAK contents support serious canine injuries/illness when you are away from your vehicle and seconds count.  For example – in a building, during a […]

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December/WK20 2016/Blog – Canine Tactical Gear Series (#7)

Canine Tactical Product: The Canine Ballistic Vest Most canine ballistic vests on the market are rated for human protection which is not practical for working canines.  A police canine’s working environment involves close quarters with small arm causalities, i.e. small caliber, knife or blunt object, and mobility is crucial for survival.  However, the vests are bulky, heavy […]

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