Water Search Dog Project - COMPLETED

To read about our launch, click here.

UPDATE

Since the launch of the water search project on 11th July 2007 things have moved swiftly in terms of training.

We started off by getting the dogs use to working from the front of a boat. This was simply achieved by setting up the boat and personnel on dry land in exactly the same way as we would do on the water. This would get the dogs use to wearing their buoyancy aids and also get used to getting on and off the boat. More importantly we were getting the dogs to start working from the front of the boat. We dropped small pieces of pig skin/ear near the front of the boat, so the dogs could start searching for the meat.

We had a successful training session on dry land and continued with this first step for a number of weeks until we were confident the dogs would be happy working off the boat and had got used to their new commands.

On the 29th September 2007 we had our next main training session led by Mick Swindells. This took place at Llyn Geirionydd and involved the dog’s first experiences of going in a boat on water.

After the initial uncertainty of the dogs being on a boat on water they all settled down well and started to search off the front of the boat.

Further training has since taken place such as a day spent on the river in Capel Curig where the dogs were much more “switched on” in terms of searching off the boat and we're getting some very strong and positive indications from the dogs.

Latest News - 22nd September 2008

GRS Water Search Team Go Operational

3 Handlers and their dogs were today succesful in their final assessment. The assessment was carried out by independent assessors and the day consisted of searches both on the water and on the river bank/river’s edge. The assessment didn’t just concentrate on the dog’s ability to search but also included a 2 person team working alongside the dog and handler.

More images are available on our Images page.

UPDATE - Handlers receive their certificates.

On the 6th March 2009, our 3 Water Search Handlers were presented with their certifictes for passing their assessments. The certificates were presented by Betty Williams MP & Mick Swindels, who helped train the handlers and dogs.

Although this project is completed, there are still major equipment needs to ensure the safety of our dogs, handlers and support crew. If you feel you're in anyway able to help with our needs, please have a look at our Wish List or contact the Secretary.