Cost analysis of Search & Rescue Dogs
Costs and benefits of using search and rescue dogs
Search and rescue dogs "are the hard-working heroes of disaster relief, but it's all a game to these talented canines. Finding a victim brings a reward -- a hug, a treat, a tussle with a favorite toy. The dogs live for the praise, even though it must sometimes be muted in deference to grief" (Woolf 2010). Although all dogs can be used in search and rescue efforts, the preferred breeds are 'scent' hounds. These dogs are bred to follow a scent and love getting a chance to be outdoors, using their special ability to great effect.
Dogs used in search and rescue efforts can be of great benefit to other animals. They have been able to find lost pets after natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina. Their presence also highlights the importance of the human-animal bond. Their loyal service encourages all observes to treat animals more humanely.
The benefits to the owners of dog search-and-rescue are to be found in the dog-human bond, and the enhanced relationship created by 'working'...
"Each dog has different cues that tell the handler that it is getting close to the quarry, that it is confused or unsure, or that it is tired. A handler must understand and trust his dog's cues to know when to proceed and when to quit" (Woolf 2010). The dogs have been useful in finding "lost children, Alzheimer's patients, overdue fishermen or hunters, accident victims, and lost or injured hikers" and earned the grateful thanks of many families (Woolf 2010).
The dog's service is of great indirect benefit to the community at large, given that engaging in massive search efforts can be a tremendously costly endeavor. Because of the efforts of these dogs, widespread 'manhunts' are not always necessary. The dogs bring a sense of safety to all who know that the animals are available to provide aid.
In terms of 'costs' to the animals, there is the undeniable fact that search and rescue missions can be hard work. The dogs must often navigate rough territory and may be exposed to injury. Although most volunteer dogs do not track felons unless they are…
