Teams gathered in Fort Macleod for some pre-testing and training on a beautiful spring day, April 1.
Piper, between barks, looks to see if her handler is making his way to her.
Ruger zooms in to the missing person.
Ti
mber returns with his handler to “save” me!
Davin considers his options during his obedience pre-test.
Piper barks her indication.
We have a new CSDA recruit to show off. Little Nikita has already begun her search training.
Enjoy!!
CSDA recently received the following thank you note from the Missing Children Society of Canada:
Thank You letter 2012
Thanks to the teams who made the trip to train yesterday at Frank Slide in the Crowsnest Pass. It was a beautiful day in the mountains!
With the report of a downed aircraft in heavy bush and forest, 4 helicopters, 2 fixed wing aircraft, 3 boats, approximately 30 quads and 110 personnel responded to a call for assistance to rescue the 15 passengers and crew. The disaster scenario tested the readiness of many agencies including Slave Lake Regional Fire Services, RCMP, Environmental and Sustainable Resource Development (Fish and Wildlife, Lands and Forest), Slave Lake Regional SAR, Edmonton Regional SAR, local aviation companies and of course the CSDA. The months of planning were obvious, and readiness was verified as all souls on board were located and evacuated from an actual remote aircraft crash site. The day was a testament to the professionalism of all those who participated. And the food, …food ….and more food at the wind up bbq featuring roast pig, chicken and ribs…..fantastic!
Teams Mission, Blue and Tango were fortunate to participate on behalf of CSDA. The teams cleared their assigned search areas and gained valuable experience operating in thick bush and deep forest environments. Many thanks to Remote Helicopters for the helicopter orientation and flight for Tango and Blue, a non-event for the dogs, but the handlers were really excited about the air time.
This is the new CSDA toll free number for use anywhere in North America. CSDA has partnered with STARS (Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society) and calling this number will connect you with the STARS ‘Emergency Link Center’. STARS personnel will then connect the caller with the appropriate CSDA personnel. This number is only intended for use by Law Enforcement Agencies requesting search assistance. The existing pager contact system (780-412-5489) will be phased out in the near future.
The Edmonton region has a new 4-legged recruit. 16 week old Sable German Shepherd Anya came out to meet the rest of the gang at our weekly training session. Big sister Soleil is enjoying having a playmate.
It is with great sadness that the CSDA announces the passing of Matthew Christopher. Matt was a member of the Canadian Search Dog association for many years. His passion for perfection and his dedication to the CSDA will be remembered by all those who trained and searched at his side. To his loving wife Erin, the entire membership sends to you our sincerest sympathy and may you find comfort in your fond memories.
