A professional development masterclass for K9 detection teams and people who work with them.
Explore:
• Questions, ideas, and opinions from handlers across the United States and around the world.
• Controversies and sensitive topics such as frauds, glory seekers, and credentials.
• Methods and practical tips gathered from more than 27 years of training and field work.
It has been said that about the only thing two K9 handlers agree about is what a third handler is doing wrong. Whether in search and rescue or cadaver and human remains detection, there’s a variety of opinions in how handlers and dogs train and work. K9 Teams: Beyond the Basics of Search and Rescue and Recovery uses solid science and the experience of dozens, if not hundreds, of handlers to explore the issues teams and organizations commonly encounter in training and operations.
What experts are saying about K9 Teams - Beyond the Basics of Search and Rescue and Recovery:
After not only reading K9 Teams, Beyond the Basics of Search and Rescue and Recovery, I went back and studied this outstanding book which covers all facets that other books have not covered in depth. I believe this book will benefit all dog handlers working in SAR. This book covers most of our issues when training or out on deployments. Ms. Vi Shaffer has a wealth of knowledge and is good enough to share this information with us. A super book for all handlers.
Jerry Numon Co-Director of Goshen County Sheriff’s, SAR Team Certified K9 Handler Torrington, WY.
I think it is the most “no-nonsense” book I’ve seen on cadaver dogs. The topics are well-arranged for easy reference. And, the practical advice, (i.e. the things that can only come from experience), is solid. I will be recommending it to all interested parties who are looking for a dog, looking to train dogs, or, just thinking about how to use a service. Very well done!”
Harrell Gill-King, PhD, DABFA - Director, Laboratory of Forensic Anthropology Center for Human Identification – University of North Texas
This is a very good choice for the beginning handler and for those with years of experience. The beginner needs the information on ethics and behavior as well as the tactical information on searches. The advanced handler can always use a refresher on ethics and on the tactical details of search. There is always something new to learn for even the most experienced handler and there are always bits that can be forgotten if not used enough. This book can help.” My recommendation -- buy it and read it and pay attention to it.
Gail Cramer – Indiana K-9 Search Specialists
…For anyone wanting to know about the use of canines in search and rescue (SAR) missions, and more especially, their use in the recovery of human remains, this book is a must read, and a must have on your resource bookshelf. Look no further than “K9 Teams: Beyond the Basics of Search and Rescue and Recovery” it is the quint essential book on what it takes to work with SAR teams, and especially recovery teams…
Jason B. Waller, M.S./Department Chair Legal & Public Service Careers/Tyler Junior College -Smith County Sheriff’s Office - Lieutenant Violent Crimes/Homicide Detective Crime Scene Unit Supervisor (Retired) - Past President/Homicide Investigators of Texas
Vi Hummel Shaffer is a professional K9 handler who has worked in search and rescue and recovery, including mass fatality recovery, for over 27 years. Along the way she’s attended dozens of seminars, learned from some of the top trainers in the world, and spent countless hours in the field working with a wide variety of agencies. In K9 Teams, Vi compiles the questions most often asked, the issues handlers struggle with, and some of the best suggestions handlers share with one another.
K9 Teams explores dog selection, training methods, professional certification, team dynamics, issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder, and much more. Everyone working with or interested in detection dogs needs this book. Those in law enforcement, fire departments, and other emergency response agencies will also benefit from the book by learning what K9s can—and cannot—reliably do. Get the most from K9 teams in the field.