Can a dog be trained for both search/rescue training and cadaver location?

[radiant_innerlight]

We have very limited search and rescue dog resources in my area and I was wondering if a tracking dog has to be trained in either live scent tracking or cadaver tracking. Ideally I would like, if possible, to train my dog for both.

[Joey B]

Depends On How You Train Your Dog

[Shadow Strike]

It is possible to do both, all that is needed is to train the dog to track a certain scent. In S&R ops, it is ideal if the K-9 unit has an article of the victims clothing. The same general principle applies to training a K-9 in cadaver search. Although it easier (if possible) to train a dog by sight rather than by smell as to accomodate an easier search and differential between the scent of a struggling body and one that has begun to decompose as in cadavers.