Margie,


Look closely at certification standards across the country. The variation are so great there really isn't any standard at all. Basing call-outs on cetification is about as reliable as playing Russian Roulette.


Bill T.

--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---

Replying to:

Regarding Certification, I too am concerned, and confused as well. I hear so much pertaining to certification, both on the local level, and more importantly, State levels. Although I too agree with what you say, unfortunately of late, the certification is a measure and a foot in the door sort of speak to potential call outs. For some, there is no chance of being used by county, state levels in the event of a lost person without a certiciation.


Given any day, circumstances can and do change. Being certified one day, doesn't mean that dog/handler will be able to duplicate the run the next. As for what I think of certifications? I believe evaluations from time to time are a better way to measure the dog/handler's ability to run trail, and more importantly, a detailed training log book should provide the answers anyone has or who questions the potential of the SAR team for future deployments.


Just my thoughts..


Margie

I agree completely. No, I am not certified. I have detailed training logs to show my progression, problems and sucesses.

--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---

Replying to:

Margie,


Look closely at certification standards across the country. The variation are so great there really isn't any standard at all. Basing call-outs on cetification is about as reliable as playing Russian Roulette.


Bill T.

--- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---

Replying to:

Regarding Certification, I too am concerned, and confused as well. I hear so much pertaining to certification, both on the local level, and more importantly, State levels. Although I too agree with what you say, unfortunately of late, the certification is a measure and a foot in the door sort of speak to potential call outs. For some, there is no chance of being used by county, state levels in the event of a lost person without a certiciation.


Given any day, circumstances can and do change. Being certified one day, doesn't mean that dog/handler will be able to duplicate the run the next. As for what I think of certifications? I believe evaluations from time to time are a better way to measure the dog/handler's ability to run trail, and more importantly, a detailed training log book should provide the answers anyone has or who questions the potential of the SAR team for future deployments.


Just my thoughts..


Margie