The dual purpose canine handlers course is an intensive six-week (288 hour) course. Prior to the course, selected canines are trained in basic obedience, control, and evidence recovery. In addition, the canine will locate and indicate to the presence of marijuana, methamphetamines and cocaine odors. Other odors may be introduced upon individual department requests. Canines are also trained in human tracking techniques and all phases of police patrol work, to include building searches, area searches, criminal apprehension, release on command, recall on command, officer protection, and suspect escort.
Each handler will be trained using various realistic environments such as structures, vehicles, parcels, and luggage for narcotics detection. The handlers will also be trained in rural, urban, and other various tracking surfaces and situations. Handlers will be instructed on search technique, training methods, and other considerations to ensure success of the canine team.
The course also incorporates canine safety and health care, packaging and storage of training aids, and legal aspects of canine utilization. Successful completion of a written test and a practical exercise is required for certification.
Annual certification for the handler and canine teams are provided free of charge.
