In this bonus episode of K9 Conservationists, Kayla speaks with the Skylos Ecology Team, Tracey Lyten and Fiona Jackson, to discuss how to work safely around wildlife and livestock. 

What are your expectations/goals around detection dogs and wildlife? Safety is top priority! Teaching the dog that the animal is there, they can acknowledge them, but not disturb them We don’t just want the dogs to bother wildlife, but we want them to be able to work around them as well It’s important for the handlers to be prepared for any and all hazards that you may come across 

Why is appropriate behavior around wildlife important? Safety for the dogs and wildlife. Ensuring the job can get done and proper data can be collected. To give clients confidence in the method and remain professional and ethical in the business.

 How do you select a dog that would be able to learn these skills? Testing dogs natural instinct around other animals; it takes a lot of work to teach a dog to not chase if they have the drive for it, but it is possible. Their life at home will have an impact on work.

What are skills taught to dogs to work in the conservation detection line of work? Emergency stops and recalls. Wait, out of sight stays. All skills from a distance. Car/road safety. Good manners around other domesticated animals. General wildlife interaction training, aka just existing with them and not chasing, etc.

Links Mentioned in the Episode:  

Where to find Sylos Ecology Team: Website | Facebook | Instagram | ACDN Conference

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