Vehicle Search

These searches are normally conducted at military Vehicle Control Points or entrances to camps, protected installations etc.

A vehicle approaching a checkpoint will be asked to halt. The team will request that the driver shuts down the vehicle and opens the boot, bonnet and all doors. The driver and any other occupants will be asked to temporarily vacate the vehicle and stand 2-3m away from it.

The dog will slowly and systematically search every section and compartment of the vehicle, usually beginning with the driver's seat. During the search, the dog's paws will be covered to prevent scratching the vehicle. Trucks and pickups will require an additional search of the tray at the rear of the vehicle. The handler will lift the dog on to the back tray so the dog can carry out a thorough search of this area. The search will include any materials that are being carried.