Training and Advisory Services: Animal Detection

The GICHD has undertaken considerable research to improve the way animals (dogs and rats) can be used in mine clearance, resulting in improved training and test methods; better understanding of the scope of the animal detection and in revised international standards. The Centre has become a focal point for animal detection in the humanitarian demining community. Advisory services are offered in:

• Advice and operational support to demining organisations using animals for detection
• Assistance in establishing national test and accreditation systems
• Assistance and support to organisations using or wanting to use Remote Explosive Scent Tracing (REST)
• Targeted research on optimal application of REST
• Assistance to the research community on the need for research and prioritising research requirements
• Professional interface between operational demining organisations and research communities

Training and advisory services are offered in:

• Training of mine dog detection components as part of capacity building in animal detection

Training and advice is tailored to the needs of each programme. Training services will typically stretch over several months or years; in contrast to regular training courses which are usually a few days to a few weeks. Shorter courses on the use of animals in humanitarian mine clearance can be arranged on request.

Associated Readings

• Mine Detection Dogs: training, operations and odour detection*
• Training of Mine Detection Dogs in Bosnia and Herzegovina (NPA Global Training Centre)*

For further information, please contact

Mikael Bold