Detection Dog Services
Nature's Rest specialises in ecological detection dog surveys and research for both the public and private sector.
As a relatively new field here in the UK, we work closely with others in the industry to provide high quality detection dog services for your ecology and conservation projects.
About Detection Dog Services
Detection dogs can be an extremely useful and cost-effective tool in ecological surveying and conservation. They offer unimproved search efficiency and detection dog rates over the traditional survey methods.
The dogs are trained using positive reinforcement based methods, including building up a strong passive indication. The use of a strong passive indication ensures the dogs do not interfere with the target odour, this also allows us to ensure the welfare of live species is a priority. The dogs are trained on a neutral odour first , allowing for the development of species specific search patterns to be developed before introducing the target odour. As part of the training the dogs learn to work safely on and off lead around wildlife and livestock, and can switch from covering large areas to small detailed searches.
The handlers have undergone the LANTRA detection dog handlers training course and receive ongoing mentoring throughout their career to ensure the service provided is of a high quality. The team are members of the Ecology Detection Dogs of Britain and Ireland Working Group, where we work with others in the industry to provide high industry standards, create a culture of responsible dog use and project & research collaboration.
Our
Services
Ecological Clerk of Works
Detection dogs can offer a time and cost-saving approach to the identifying of individuals within an area.
With the ecological support we are able to support with ensuring the dogs and handers are all covered by licensing where required.
Biosecurity
Detection dogs are able to identify cryptic or fragments of a species undetected;e by humans. This ability allows them to aid biosecurity efforts for many management projects and species.
Research
The field of detection dogs and the uses in ecology and conservation is ongoing.
Projects and research into new techniques are important, and to allow us to maintain high standards and develop best practice.
Training
Do you want to know more on what goes into ecological detection dog services, how that fits into an ecology or conservation project?
The we can offer online or in-person training sessions to provide an introduction to this service and it's uses.
Species Detection Available:
- Great Crested Newt (under licence)
- Bat and Bird Carcass
- Signal Crayfish (Biosecurity)
- Water Vole
Current Research:
- Cassula Helmsii
- Hazel Dormouse