Episode 53: Interview with Kaleigh Gagnon — Canine Connection Podcast

In this episode, Kaleigh Gagnon shares her extensive knowledge of search and rescue dogs and scent work training. Discover how dogs are trained to detect various odors and the comprehensive certification process required to become operational. We talk about how versatile and adaptable dogs can be. Kaleigh’s emphasizes the importance of learning how to read your dog’s behavior to develop a strong partnership. Search and rescue requires an enormous amount of time, dedication and sacrifice. We are grateful for all the volunteers out there!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Search and Rescue and Kaleigh Gagnon's background

00:06 Types of search and rescue work: live find vs. human remains detection

00:14 Training and certifying search and rescue dogs in different disciplines

00:44 Teaching dogs to differentiate odors and environments

01:00 Reading your dog's behavior and body language during scent work

01:02 The importance of trust, communication, and relationship building

01:31 Environmental factors and odor movement in scent detection

01:56 Training routines, consistency, and handling during searches

02:18 The mental aspect of scent work and handler confidence

02:29 How dogs perceive odors and the science of odor wafting

02:37 Practical tips for training and improving scent detection skills