Baggage or Item Search

Ideally this type of search should be conducted within a controlled environment, particularly in areas with extremely warm climatic conditions. This will maximise the efficiency of the dog and prolong the length of the work session.

MineTech search teams are sensitive to the fact that certain people and certain cultures object to dogs touching them or their possessions. Therefore, searches are always conducted with due care and attention to minimise contact with the dogs.

Bags to be searched are laid out approximately one metre apart by the owner, who will also be asked to undo all zips on the bag by 10cm. This will allow vapours to escape and make the job of the dog easier and more effective. All bag searches are carried out in the presence of the owner.

The dogs will be on a short 1.2m lead and, with the handler, will begin at the start of the line of bags. The team will pass by each item of baggage in the line, at times focusing on a particular bag if encouraged by the handler. One pass by the dog over each bag is generally sufficient.