PATROL DIVISION
This will consist of the following:
SEARCH, AGILITY, OBEDIENCE, PROTECTION
SEARCH
This phase will consist of various types of “containers” to be searched.The “containers” to be searched may include such items as search boxes, dumpsters, fruit bins, vehicles, etc.The search may be an indoor building search, an outdoor area search, or both.All dogs will be sent from the same starting point, but you may work your dog in accordance with your department policy or training.Working closely with your dog or sending your dog and watching and directing him from a distance are both acceptable methods.The dog will be judged on drive, interest, control, ability to locate the scent, aggressiveness in the alert, and handler errors.When you feel your dog has located the hiding place you will notify the judges by raising one hand and pointing with the other to the hiding place.False alert, defecating, or urinating will result in loss of points and/or disqualification.Other aspects and details of the Search Phase will be discussed on the date of the Trial during the Handler’s Meeting.The time limit will be determined by the Judges and/or the Trial Master.
OBEDIENCE
This phase will consist of an off-lead heeling course that will be called by the steward.It will consist of all types of turns at either a normal, fast, or slow pace; in motion sits and/or downs; and halts, heels, etc.There will also be hand commands/signals where the handler will leave his dog at a designated point and a series of sits, downs, etc. will be demonstrated.There may be a sit and/or down on the recall.The judges must be made aware of the type of finish prior to the recall.The K-9 and handler will be judged on control, correctness of response, and a K-9’s willingness to work.Second commands and/or signals will result in the appropriate point reduction.
AGILITY
The agility course may be performed either in a fluid manner or static (with sits before each obstacle).Either way, handler’s control of the dog should be demonstrated.Only two attempts of each obstacle may be attempted, with the second attempt counting for half points.Hand signals simultaneously given with verbal commands are allowed.The handler should not be ahead of his dog when approaching any obstacle.The teams will be judged on the K-9’s ability to negotiate the obstacles with out hesitation.Any additional instructions will be given by the judge(s)/trial master on the date of the trial
Note: Obedience and agility will be run simultaneously:i.e.: While one team is competing in obedience, another will be competing in agility on an adjacent part of the field.
PROTECTION
The man work sequences will be announced the day of the trial.We will provide all agitators, back up officers, and protection equipment.You will also be expected to take reasonable measures to protect the agitator(s) in case of lost footing, equipment failure, etc.The events may consist of realistic scenarios that K-9 teams would encounter on the street.Equipment to be used may include muzzles, body suits, and hard or soft sleeves.The teams will be judged on a willing, cooperative, and controlled K-9 that is eager to apprehend and demonstrate a strong engagement with the suspect agitator(s).
SUMMARY
All entrants must state OPEN or NOVICE division before the trial.There will be Novice trophies for Novice entrants who have two (2) trials or less.
Entrants can sign-up on for a Team Trophy.This Team Trophy is awarded to a team of two K9/Handler teams, who combine for the highest combined score.All entrants with two (2) or more K9/Handler teams from the same department are eligible for these trophies.If a K9/Handler team does not have a 2nd K9/Handler team from his/her Agency participating in the Trial, they are eligible to sign-up with another K9/Handler team from a different Agency under the same circumstance.Your order in the competition will be determined by drawing.
Handler/K-9 teams entered shall be full-time working K-9 teams.During the day, other than while competing, all dogs shall be on-lead, staked securely, kenneled, or secured appropriately in an equipped vehicle.Any dogs getting loose for reasons other than an equipment failure, such as a broken chain, window, etc., will be disqualified.SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY.
During the competition, no shake chains, keys, balls, food, etc. will be carried for control of your dog.You will carry your lead at the direction of the steward during the Obedience phase of the Trial.Variations in departmental training will be considered and should be brought up during the judge/handler meeting.
The judges will have the option of repeating any phase of the competition and may stop and/or disallow any phase of competition to any team deemed to by unfit or unsafe to compete or continue with the competition.
Because we encourage members of the public to attend and enjoy the competition of our trial, it is important that all competitors and associates act accordingly and in a way that demonstrates an atmosphere of professionalism.Should any handler, trainer, or team associate become disruptive, he/she may be asked to leave.If a problematic situation should continue, the disruptive party may be disqualified, and/or cause the disqualification of their respective K-9 team(s).
Note: Wear department authorized duty uniforms or jumpsuits during the competition.
A concession stand will be in operation throughout the day.Although there is shaded parking nearby, there is limited shaded parking in the immediate area around the trial field(s).There will be a designated exercise area for “breaking” your dogs.Please make every effort to utilize this area for purposes of “breaking” your K-9 partner.There will be a veterinarian available at the trial site.
