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DEPUTY CARLOS AZCARATE WITH HIS K-9 PARTNER XILLI (Pronounced ZILLI)
Xilli is a two and a half year old female German Shepherd
Deputy Azcarate & Xilli attended the U.S. Border Patrol Canine Search and Rescue (SAR) Training School which began on January 3rd, 2011 and ended March 25th, 2011. The K9 School consisted of 10 weeks of intense search and rescue training in addition of two weeks for advance training
The K9 school is based on a vast knowledge of K9 related training terminology, methods, and procedures in which in return, that knowledge is then applied out in the field. A final exam is given at the end of the 10th week of the school and determination to continue and finish the school depends in passing the exam with an 80% average score or greater. A majority of the K9 terminology, methods, and procedures are introduced at the beginning of school and then immediately put to test with the K9 out in the field. The training starts off with short, simple lessons and then progresses to difficult exercises as the K9s confidence and understanding of what is expected of her begins to build up. The K9 is trained to track humans (passive, injured, or dangerous subjects) and is trained in on- and off-leash area search (large and small open areas). In addition to the final exam, we are required to complete and pass six different exercises (performed in daytime and nighttime hours) in order to become certified as a SAR tracking team. The team is required to complete at least 16 hours of maintenance training every month to keep our certification and have to re-certify once every year from here on. |
DEPUTY RAFAEL GALLARDO WITH HIS K-9 PARTNER OTTO
Otto is a Belgium Malinois.
Deputy Gallardo & Otto attended the U.S. Border Patrol Canine Training Course began on March 7, 2011 and Ended on April 15, 2011.
The Border patrol training center is the most recognized training center in the US.
The course consisted of intense difficult training for Otto.
All rookie canine handlers attend an intensive six-week course in detection canine handling where they are paired with their new canine partners. After completion of basic handler training all canine teams receive a minimum of sixteen hours of maintenance training monthly.
During the 6 week course, an intense written final exam was given with a minimum passing score of 80% needed to pass the test. The course also consisted of a final certification consisting of multiple searches of different types to also complete the course.
Canine handlers literally take their work home with them, since their canine partners live with them at their homes. Based upon this unique element, the bond that develops between handler and canine is unsurpassed. Most handlers become so attached to their four-legged partners that they remain in the canine program until the dog is retired, even if that means foregoing a promotion for the handler. |