K9 Conservationists

What to Know Before Hiring a Conservation Dog Team with Conservation Dogs of Hawaii and Rogue Detection Teams

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In this episode of K9 Conservationists, Kayla talks with Kyoko Johnson from Conservation Dog Hawaii and Jennifer Hartman from Rogue Detection Teams about things to know before hiring a conservation detection dog team.

What are some things scientists should consider before hiring a conservation detection dog team?

  • Lower density finds are easier for dogs
  • Dogs are often used near the end of a project vs the beginning or brought in to target a more specific area
  • It is important they have their question ready and prepared in order to figure out if dogs will be useful to the project or not
  • Conservation detection teams are understaffed, so sometimes it’s best to consider other options that are more feasible

    • Pros of detection dogs?

    • They can be used in tandem with other methods, which can be very successful
    • Detection dogs are non-invasive
    • They are not biased
    • Dogs can narrow down species easier

      • How to know if the dog will be able to successfully collect data?

      • It’s not possible to guarantee that it will work
      • Known target types in which dogs have been successfully used in other projects
      • Go with an experienced team to ensure best accuracy if it is something new

        • What is the importance of training samples beforehand?

        • Reliable training samples is important for the dog to be able to detect for your project
        • It is important to have a sample from the location you are working in
        • Variety in samples is important (sexes, different individuals, etc.)
        • The fresher the sample the better, but sometimes it's not possible
        • It is important to note samples will always differ from live odors when on the job

          • Why is it important to let teams know about past difficulties with projects?

          • Some previous difficulties may not be relevant to a dog’s work, but it is good to know to ensure that the teams are able to help with the project

            • Why are realistic timelines so important for researchers to understand?

            • It takes time to train a dog on a new odor
            • Projects may have various limitations
            • There are travel considerations - vaccines, etc.

              • Why do some scientists think detection dogs dont work?

              • Study design may limit teams
              • Expecting the method to perform the same way other methods do
              • Patience is needed as it takes time to get the dogs ready on a scent
              • Limited funding for teams

                • What are the risks of the dogs being invasive?

                • The standards the dogs have when working are high
                • Dogs could not do their job if they were a risk for chasing wildlife

                  • What are some preventative measures to take for both the dogs health and the wildlife’s health?

                  • Vaccinations
                  • Ensuring your dogs have everything they need - fresh water, proper food, etc.
                  • Daily checks to ensure they are healthy
                  • Be prepared to stop work if they are sick or injured
                    • ...more
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                    K9 ConservationistsBy Kayla Fratt
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