Customer Reviews

Search and Rescue Dogs: Training the K-9 Hero, Second Edition

5 star:		(12)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This book was great, it helped me be able to learn how to trian my dog to track using the air scenting method. It gives step by step instructions on how to succeed in training you dog to become certified in Search and Rescue. Published by the ARDA you know that the material it contains is up to date and current. The other great feature in this book is that is specializes in ground tracking, air scent tracking, disaster search, avalance search, cadaver search, and water search and rescues. Can't speak more highly of this book, the only book that compares with this book is Search Dog Training by Sandy Bryson.

I was new to SAR when I picked up this book. It is very well written and easy for the beginner to read, and has wonderful ideas for the more advanced dogs too. It covers all, from tracking and cadaver to avalanche work! A must have for a new trainer!

This book is awesome! I have the first edition,and this one is even better. The chapter on Disaster Missions is both interesting and informative. The steps for training to meet the FEMA standards is something I've been looking for, as well as the training for cadaver work. I can't recommend this book highly enough, both for new and experienced handlers.

In training any dog, the biggest challenge always is how to 'connect the dots' in the dogs mind for what you want to see repeated and ignore what you don't want repeated. You then move on to giving the dog space to make his own choices based on what you taught him. This book fits perfectly into the philosophy.

I have owned two purebred dogs. Field Springers and Border Collies. Both breeds I had to trust to make their own decisions at one point as both had to ultimately operate off a lead. Establishing that connection is key with any dog to keep them safe, and to keep the enjoyment factor high. I give high marks to this book for making this point.

I disagree with a previous reviewer that this is only about German Shepherds. Certainly the pictures are, but anyone who has ever trained a dog should know that personality, drive, and disposition are all factors in training and that trumps breed every time. If the dog is interested he/she is limited only by his ability to smell.

The strongest part of this book is that it begins with simple puzzles for the dog, then offers more complex puzzles as they gain confidence. Like the writers, I agree that the dog has to want to do this. For my border collie it is now a passion. What I used to call 'hide and seek' with my dog has now jumped to a different level thanks to this book.

I'm grateful to the reviewers of this book who gave this such high marks. It made all the difference in choosing the right one. AND, I chose the right one.

This is an excellent book. It covers a wide array of SAR scenarios, including the new section on disaster searches. A must-read, from the foremost authority on K-9 Search and Rescue. We all have ARDA to thank for bringing K-9 SAR stateside. A fabulous 2nd edition!

A very well written book on the overview of the selection, training and care of the search and rescue dog. The authors provide addtional information on subjects such as how to form a rescue team (unit) and how to train for an actual incident. Wilderness searches, urban disasters, avalanche and cadaver training, and water rescues are all covered, and the case studies of actual missions make this a very interesting read.

The primary utility of this book is that it provides a good conceptual introduction to the world of K9SAR. It provides a panorama of what is involved in K9SAR (standards, training, equipment) and the various specialties. A thorough read of this book will give the beginner a handle on the issues and shop-talk you will encounter in the world of K9SAR.

Having said that...do not expect to learn how to train your dog for Search and Rescue from this book. Or any book. There is no way to learn to properly train a dog without the oversight of skilled mentors in the field. And hours and hours and hours of time with your dog.

Also, just like in parenting, for every training method or technique, there is someone with an opposite opinion. So much depends on the dog (its breed, temperament and preferences) and the handler. Do your homework, find mentors you trust, and let them guide you from selecting a pup onward.

Other books I've found useful in my own K9SAR training experience include: Following Ghosts: Developing the Tracking Relationship, Scent and the Scenting Dog (though the theory of rafts as presented here is dated), Ready! 2nd Edition The Training of the Search and Rescue Dog (Kennel Club Pro), and Natural Dog Training.

Excellent book on the training of all breeds for a difficult task of search and rescue. Easy to read and follow with many diagrams and pictures. Many of the suggestions are still use today by trainers in obedience classes. Well written

I've had issues locating a team to work with experienced SAR dogs and this book is WONDERFUL. It has helped answer a lot of questions that sadly I can't ask others for since I lack a real mentor. Really a great book for a beginner thinking about SAR work or starting SAR work

After reading much of this book, I have been pleased with its content. It is very informative and clearly lays out instructions. If you want to train a dog of your own I would still highly recommend you link up with a dog team in your area. The information in this book plus one-on-one training/instruction will get you and your dog headed towards success!