Dogs Against Terrorism
and more

I asked my experts to check/clear the following article before I used it - questioning a few things that didn't sound quite right/a little off. Patting myself on the back - as opposed to the frequent need to slap self - some of the education is sticking. I think this is Roger's reply, also the comment about Marines injured by mines article further below. Can't swear, page was lost in reload land just long enough to have me swearing at my lost brain cells, again.

"Near the bottom, it says the dogs are rarely cross-trained, that statement is wrong, the dogs are never cross trained, ever!! Unless of course the person is outside the military and also a fricken idiot. The dogs' percentage of finds is wrong as well. Military dogs find drugs and bombs at different percentages. Drug is between 90-100 percent; bomb is between 95-100, the minimum is a requirement to be able to work at all. The variance is solely dependent on the dogs abilities and proficiency."

Side note: "The handler is basically a reward dispenser, the dog does all the work, but it is a team effort overall."

In the new war against terrorism, the United States is getting help from an old friend. After the Sept. 11 attacks, search and rescue dogs helped rescue workers search for any survivors among the ruins. They were honored, along with emergency personnel, by being invited to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange.

Now, dogs trained to sniff out bombs and other threats are helping to stand guard against further terrorism on American soil and overseas. In airports, seaports and at large public gatherings, these dogs offer reassurance to a sometimes jittery populace.

At Tampa International Airport, for instance, police reported that people are visibly calmer and more relaxed with dogs on duty. Passengers interviewed say the dogs give them a more secure feeling.

Soon, there will be a lot more dogs, and in a lot more places.

The “Dog School” at Lackland Air Force Base, in Texas, has added classes to its schedule in the past month to train more dogs for the Federal Aviation Administration, the Secret Service and the Department of Defense. Officially called the 341st Training Squadron, the school had provided about 300 dogs each year, trained to sniff out bombs, drugs or to help guard high-level dignitaries.

The 341st Squadron is the largest dog training school in the world. It trains all the dogs used by these federal agencies, as well as for U.S. Customs. Formally known as the Department of Defense Military Working Dog School, it was brought under the wing of the Air Force, which had started its own training program for dogs in the early 1970s.

Besides all major airports (and now many smaller ones), these dogs are deployed in hot spots such as Bosnia and Saudi Arabia, which have a substantial U.S. military presence. They are also in American embassies worldwide, and help guard American military installations. Whether they have been deployed to Central Asia, where the United States is conducting the war against terrorism, is not known.

After the terrorist attacks, much information about these dogs has been restricted, especially the numbers and places where the dogs are on patrol. A police spokesman at Miami International Airport, for instance, said it is their policy to not comment on any security arrangement – including dogs. “Before Sept. 11, we would have loved to talk all about it,” he said.

Air Force spokesman Edgar Castillo did say that dogs are no longer used for wartime scouting and sentry duty as they were in previous conflicts. He characterized their role as “police work,” even in a military setting. For instance, Castillo said the squadron’s dogs are no longer trained to detect mines. Agencies must go outside to private companies for such special tasks. “We have strict guidelines as to how they are used,” he said. “In many ways, the dogs are treated better than the handlers.”

Purchase teams are in Europe to find purebred German shepherds and Belgian Malinois, the dogs favored by the school. Castillo said the school prefers getting dogs from Europe because the breeds are kept scrupulously pure. “In the United States, most dogs are related,” he said. This increases the chance of hip dysplasia and other abnormalities, which automatically disqualifies a dog.

Most state and local law enforcement agencies, and some federal ones, must rely on other sources. Some dogs are purchased in Germany, while others – often Labrador retrievers – are accepted from schools that train dogs for the blind. Their temperament and the training they have already undergone make them excellent candidates for police work.

In fact, Labradors are the only dogs used by agents of the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. They are favored because of their good dog manners, ease of training and calm disposition – all important aspects of a bomb-sniffing dog.

No matter what breed, the need is certainly there. Heightened security concerns at major public gatherings, along with scores of bomb scares, have kept the corps of bomb-sniffing dogs busy. In Boston, for instance, requests to check out “suspicious packages” jumped 527 percent in the month since the attacks. None contained explosives or any harmful substances, but the calls have put something of a strain on resources.

Fortunately, private industry is also ramping up “production” of these dogs. Global Training Academy, in Texas, has seen a 75 percent jump in demand for bomb-sniffing dogs since Sept. 11. The academy trains dogs for local and state law enforcement agencies, as well as de-mining dogs for the U.S. State Department. “There’s been a definite increase in the last month,” co-owner Jim Parks said.

In an ironic twist, the academy had 96 of its dogs in Afghanistan before the Sept. 11 attacks. The dogs were part of the worldwide de-mining effort – now largely on hold due to the war.

Training for military dogs or those used in civilian police departments is very similar. Puppies are exposed to large gatherings, noise, machinery and cars. During the socialization period, which lasts about eight weeks, the dogs are tested for their drive to complete tasks and how they react to different situations.

When they are one year old, the dogs go into more intense training, which can last 10 to 22 weeks, depending on what the dog’s mission will be, and the school where the training is done. At Lackland, dogs spend three weeks undergoing patrol training, followed by eight weeks of specialized training to detect bombs or drugs. They are rarely cross-trained, because you don’t want to guess whether the dog is detecting drugs or bombs.

To purchase and train the dogs is expensive. Each dog can cost between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on the breed and the type of training. But with a 98 percent success rate in detection, these dogs are worth more than their weight in gold.

Article did not include a credit, doesn't matter, it's good, in general, as far as one more push for respect. Please remember, whatever you read, whatever the credit, just because it's in print, it ain't necessarily so. Same naturally applies to TV. This is a longtime peeve, and ongoing rant-rouser with me. Bottom line, as I've been saying on numerous previous pages: the almighty ad dollar. I recently read Linda Ellerbee's "And So It Goes" - Adventures in Television. Ellerbee is a hoot, mainly because she told the truth, as in, something like, "So what, it's just TV." Some years ago, some rocket scientist figured out news could be profitable - an so it went and continues to go.

If you've noticed, when there's nothing particularly "hot" going on, all the media drags out any old rotten thing to chew. And spit at us - to fill space - that's all. Facts are insignificant.

CNN.com - Dogs of war sniff for Afghanistan mines - December 18, 2001
http://cnn.com/2001/WORLD/asiapcf/central/12/18/gen.demining.dogs/index.html

My note to the guys: Adding to your pages. If any of you want to add info, please do. Also, a question: I didn't hear anything about dogs in any of the reports about the Marines who were injured by mines - you know anything about why not?

"Truth is that some dogs get blown up, I know of a few, but it is not reported much, or talked about much because we train these dogs to do a job that is very dangerous, so we don't have to risk humans. The blunt truth, if they die in action, it probably means one soldier was saved, and ultimately that's what they are there for. Mine dogs are usually put on a 360" leash and sent out ahead of the handler. Dogs don't sniff the ground all the time, I think you can see what happens if they don't for very long."

I also sent the article to Helen for input as a civilian SAR handler. Naturally I don't recall how we got into the bloodline, "blooded" issue. We are still gathering info, names and dates to nail certain mental midgets in Indiana who refuse to certify bloodhounds for "legit" work. It is truly amazing how those dogs can still do their jobs, fully appreciated and awarded by those who know BS and how to work around it. Due to ridiculous paperwork foul-ups/inconsistencies between FEMA and SEMA (state and federal emergency agencies), all seven teams Helen coordinates were jerked around and never allowed to go to New York. All their donated supplies did make it however, in spite of the above-mentioned "official" idiots.

Ancestors were known in the Mediterranean region before the Christian era. It stands about 25 in. (63.5 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs between 80 and 110 lb. (36.3–49.9 kg). Its short, smooth coat may be black and tan, red and tan, or tawny. The skin is very loose and hangs in deep folds over the forehead and at the sides of the face, giving the dog its characteristically mournful expression. The oldest hound breed and progenitor of all the hounds, it was introduced into Europe long before the Crusades and became popular with the aristocracy and clergy.

Pic above is Sean McQuire, Explorer Scout, through the Boy Scouts of America and Rom. Sean was one of two on Helen's team who won the Explorer of the Year title from the Indianapolis council. This was the first time in the history of the council that there was a joint award for Explorer of the Year. Sylvia Adamson, co-winner, was also from Helen's group. For more info from Helen, please go back to http://www.therealmartha.com/WARK9/index.htm

If the link to her page comes up with a "temporary no access" message, that would be a money screw game Geocities is playing.

The Belgian Malinois

Family: livestock, herding
Area of Origin: Belgium
Date of Origin: 1800s
Original Function: stock herding
Today’s Function: security, police, contraband detection, assistance, herding trials, shutzhund
Other Name: Malinois, chien de berger Belge History

The Belgian sheep-herding breeds, collectively known as chiens de berger Belge, shared their early history as general-purpose shepherds and guard dogs of Belgium. As working dogs, they were bred for ability rather than esthetics, and no careful records were kept. Thus, when dog shows became popular in the late 1800s, it was not clear if Belgium had any recognizable breeds with which they could tout their national pride.

In 1891, professor Adolphe Reul was asked to study the native dogs to see if they could be sorted into distinct breeds. He found a group of similar dogs that differed only in coat type and color, all of which were grouped as Belgian shepherds. The shorthaired variety was developed in the area around Malines, and so became known as the Belgian Malinois.

It remains the most popular of the Belgian shepherd breeds in its native land, but has had a rockier road in America. Between 1911 and World War II, the Malinois enjoyed a good deal of popularity in America. After the war, registrations plummeted, and it was rare to find a Malinois entered in competition. When the breeds were separated in 1959, Malinois registrations began to grow once again, but they still fell far behind the other Belgian breeds.

More recently, the Malinois is becoming popular because of its reputation as one of the pre-eminent police dogs in the world, surpassing even the German shepherd in demand. Thus, even though it may not be seen in many homes or show rings, it is making its presence known as a keeper of the peace throughout the world.

Temperament
Intense best describes the Belgian Malinois. This is a high-energy breed with a need for regular mental and physical stimulation. It is alert, smart and serious, an ideal watchdog and guard dog. It is aloof with strangers and can be aggressive toward other dogs and animals. Some can be domineering. When confined, it often runs in sweeping circles in an effort to stay on the move. It is protective of its home and family.

Upkeep
The Malinois is a high-energy dog that needs a lot of exercise. Its needs cannot be met with a leisurely walk on leash. It instead needs a good jog or a vigorous play session. It especially enjoys herding. This breed can live outside in temperate to cool weather, but it would prefer to divide its time between house and yard. Its coat needs weekly brushing, more when shedding.

Health
• Major concerns: none
• Minor concerns: CHD, epilepsy, skin allergies
• Occasionally seen: none
• Suggested tests: hip
• Life span: 10 – 12 years Form and Function

The Belgian Malinois is a sturdy dog of square proportion with moderately heavy, but oval, bone. It is elegant, with very proud head carriage. The overall impression is of power without bulkiness. The gait is smooth and easy, seemingly effortless rather than hard driving. Such a gait gives the impression of tirelessness. The Malinois has a tendency to run in a wide circle rather than a straight line. Its coat is fairly short, straight, and hard, with a dense undercoat. Its expression is intelligent and questioning. Graphic and article courtesy of K9WebWorld

From Kelly, "I really like this fact sheet on the Mal. I had Pinto look it over and he agrees with most of it." (Pinto has been invited to take pen in paw to note exceptions and/or submit additonal info.)

From Helen, "Let the guys tell you about their Mals, all are different, like any dog. The intelligence in most is unequaled in my opinion, but I admit, I have never met all breeds so I'm not the one to judge. I will say Jazz, our German shepherd, is every bit as intelligent as Rush, but in a different way, and I have one shepherd that's a ditz. Also had a female Mal without an ounce of sense."

http://www.malinois.com/ - Links directory

http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Flats/3552/ - Mal rescue

http://www.breedclub.org/malrescue.htm - Mals for adoption

http://www.malinut.com/links/index.shtml - More Mal links, backtrack to main page to meet the "Malinut"

http://www.allbreed.net/stamps/Malinois/Malinois1.htm - Postage stamps

Watched The Terminator for at least the 20th time recently, was the first time I paid any attention to the dogs being used as detectors. Remember the dog at the motel saved Kyle and Sarah by barking a warning too? Pretty cool.

It so happens one of my brothers worked on that movie in various capacities, one being the guy on the ground that the truck ran over - near the end, if ya blink, you'll miss it. Anyway, I have suggested that he suggest someone needs to make a movie specifically about detection service. We shall see ...

This is an excellent idea, especially for older animals

Get it on tape

The dog's acting weird. There's obviously something wrong, but when you get to the vet, you have a hard time describing the behavior. It happens all the time - it's an unwritten rule that strange symptoms must disappear for the duration of the vet visit. If you have a camcorder, capture the behavior on tape - the vet gets a clear view of exactly how the critter acts.

If you don't have a camcorder, make notes on symptoms - small details you may not remember in the vet's office. All input is important, and certainly helpful to assist the usual mind-reading feats vets perform.

A personal observation that may help you make life a little more "tuned" for an older dog. Buster, conscientious territorial guard that he is, even at this ripening senile stage, sometimes forgets what else he needs to do while he's out and about. Usually a simple reminder/question and continuing on the walk to the designated poop areas gets the job done.

Then we go back to our cozy bed ...

Could you refuse that face anything? There's a tad more snow on the da Dude's roof and he may be slippin' a bit, but he's still a champion con artist when it comes to working us for the after-walkies cookies. More about the Boston Tooter ~ http://www.therealmartha.com/toottoot/index.htm
http://www.therealmartha.com/BegRoyale/index.htm ~ The Beggar Royale and friends

http://www.therealmartha.com/adopt/index.htm   ~ Meet the Shelter Sweeties
http://www.therealmartha.com/LPNs/index.htm ~ Licensed practical noogiests, therapy angels of the four-legged, wet-nosed, sloppy-kissin' kind
http://www.therealmartha.com/Smile/index.htm   ~ Name that smile ... friendliest, most beautiful, goofiest, mischievous ... show off your best buddy's pearly whites
http://www.therealmartha.com/patriotcritters/index.htm ~ Special patriotic celebration for and by our four-legged family members
http://www.therealmartha.com/spayneuter/index.htm ~ Spay/neuter graphics, not the usual, on printable pages

Thanks RA for another cutie!
Check out K9WebWorld's new site: http://www.geocities.com/k9wwlist/ - a must-'zine for any dog person. And I'm not saying that just because this is a featured site :) Have to show off award again too - can't think of one that's been more of an honor - which, rightfully belongs to all the guys and dogs in the unit, Helen, her dogs and people and all who have contributed whether they realize it or not.

Credit and thanks for graphic at top of page go to Terri

There will be more, bookmark and come back soon. Contributions always welcome and I'm happy to list any other addresses for K9 units you may know about. As I have said before, I like dogs better than most people and have the greatest respect for those able to establish the communication it takes to work with any service dog. I have had more great feedback for these pages than any other project. I have fun, and the "work" here - going toward overall education by way of promoting the well-deserved appreciation so sorely lacking in our society for any animal - is worth more to me than was or could ever be imagined. Sappy? You bet, sappy and happy as can be allowed. Thanks again for all support.

Little reminder: V-day is sneakin' up ... what better time to send a note to a service member? Better still, have a bunch of kids - or any group - fill a box with valentines, and throw in a few of those silly candy hearts - and don't forget treats for the dogs too! Find links, addresses and homemade goodie recipes on main K9 page: http://www.therealmartha.com/WARK9/index.htm

Squid Times
Cool pix and funnies
http://www.therealmartha.com/Navymisc/index.htm

The Whispering Activist Record
central link/update page
http://www.therealmartha.com/WAR/index.htm

"The Whispering Activist" a.k.a. Martha Jones - Opinions and ideas, mine and from others, that everyone can use to get involved, make a difference and lighten the load. Find hoax busters, media hype alerts, timely info, controversy, common sense, commiseration, empathy, household tips, easy recipes, critter stuff, variety links, and a little humor along the way.

Questions/suggestions: MarthaJones1@aol.com or MsAtte2ude@aol.com

Please use a clearly defined subject line (WAR K9 is fine - "hey there, hi, this is great ... " do not cut it, that's what spammers use). I have at least 10 tons of junk to sort every day - if I don't recognize a name, I delete. Unfortunately, due to virus/worm problems, downloads also have to be automatic deletions. Way too many people do not realize their scanners can't catch the latest. Embedded images or copies of doc. files are welcome. Typing in all caps is not, I do not have time to retype. All caps is extremely irritating and should never be used unless you mean to be screaming, which is even more irritating. I will not read, no matter the subject. If you have a great piece you haven't seen everywhere, go ahead and send the first few lines. I may ask you to retype the whole thing if I don't already have it in proper form. Double spaces between sentences are a giant pain too.

This page and some of the above links are just a few of the side-trips I take. If you need a break in the kitchen, holiday or any day, what I really do is real easy recipes for real busy, real people. Warning: not for fans of the UnReal Martha.

www.TheRealMartha.com
Follow links to way-back-when pages

http://www.therealmartha.com/indexgraphiccr/default.htm
Most recent cooking stuff and gawd-only-knows-what-else you'll find - I lost track a looooong time ago