TRACKING AND SAR
Tracking is an integral part of the Boykin Spaniel history. A
good hunting dog is able to use their nose to find game and the
Boykin has excellent olfactory abilities.
TRACKING TESTS AND COMPETITIONS
There are limited organizations for Boykins to participate in
tracking tests. ASCA (Australian Shepherd Club of America)
provide an all-breed tracking test. More information on ASCA's
tracking program can be found at:
www.asca.org/Programs+/Tracking
Schutzhund organizations have a portion of their tests
dedicated to tracking and search and rescue. According to Selina
Skipper, kennel manager for Blue Sky German Shepherd Dogs "There
are two Schutzhund groups in the US; DVG
Landesverband DVG America and USA
United Schutzhund
Clubs of America. With DVG you
have to be committed to doing all three disciplines; protection,
ob, and tracking. USA is set up so you can earn individual
titles in Ob and Tracking. They, also, have higher levels of
tracking in which you can title. ... You have to register with
USA and get your scorebook. However, your dog doesn't have to
have papers or be recognized by AKC."
The AKC
(www.akc.org/events/tracking/index.cfm)
is undeniably the largest national organization that
holds sanctioned tracking tests. Tracking is listed under their
"Companion Dog Events" and all AKC registerable breeds may
participate. AKC holds a yearly
National Tracking Invitational -
both 2004 and 2005 events were held in September in Asheville,
NC at the Biltmore Estate. Stay tuned for announcements on the Boykin
Spaniel's advancement into AKC events, as well as tracking!
HUNTERS
Ethical hunters do not allow wounded game to suffer and die
in agony. An organization called "Deer Search, Inc."
www.deersearch.org/ was created to assist hunters in
tracking wounded game and humanely putting them out of their
misery.
SEARCH AND RESCUE (SAR)
Search and Rescue or sometimes termed Search and Recovery, is
a vital part of the aftermath of natural disasters and terrorist
acts of violence. Whether it is a neighborhood child lost in the
woods, an avalanche victim or a terrorist bombing - dogs hearing
and sense of smell is superior to the ability of humans alone in
finding victims.
SAR uses both trained professionals, such as firefighters and
police, and also volunteers from the community to establish a
worldwide network of dog and handler teams. Organizations are
willing to work with all highly motivated, trainable,
people-loving dogs. Some organizations, such as
www.searchdogfoundation.org/ , look for abused or abandoned
dogs in shelter or foster situations to train for SAR work.
These are some parent organizations to contact for more
information on volunteering in SAR:
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