 Zap returns from a successful find... |
Zap's ability to airscent was clearly visible as a puppy. She had a knack for finding things and people, and she enjoys it a great deal. In her work, we use some skills she would use as a SAR dog (with scent discrimination tossed in just to make it exciting) to play hide-and-seek with some of her "patients" and to actually find some of them who, as "runners" have a tendency to just take off and disappear quickly...
Zap enoys a good challenge - she relies on her ability to airscent and her keen eyesight (ah, those sheepdog genes come in handy) to find what she's looking for. Even as a puppy, Zap had strong prey and play drive, making this kind of work fun and exciting to her. She always likes puzzles, and those that move fast are among her favourites! |
| Tracking with Zap is a challenge for the handler. She is now able to track about 200 yards, with two to three direction changes and one article on the way. I'm sure she's ready for more, but I don't think I am!
Those of you who have seen Zap in action know that there's no in-between-speed on this little girl. When she's on a track and going, she's running full speed ahead. I usually end up winded and have to slow down, and she gives me some truly dirty looks. I don't want to curb her enthusiasm, and sometimes she loses interest or gets frustrated if I'm slowing her down. I think this means I have to hit the treadmill and start running (sprinting) long distances again, over rough terrain. |
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