Handler Certification

Canine Tactical’s certification (Morton/Method) concept evolved from my experiences as the first NSWGRP 2 K9 operator, experienced in high stress and high risk situations:  It is important to have a canine with a mindset to work due to the Hunt as opposed to the Reward;  It is important that the canine focuses on each task as it intertwines into another;  It is important for handlers to be able to make quick decisions under pressure while stressed and/or tired while maintaining control of their canine. 

 

 This certification takes the equipment out of the scenario allowing the true essence of the canine’s reaction to the bite. This certification takes place in an area not known or familiar to the handler or to the canine, and the suspect used is also not familiar to the canine. This second layer certification takes the control out of the environment (where anything goes) and the true points of performance are graded which sets the foundation for real world deployments. 

Single purpose canine team certification also available.

 

Phase I (Tracking)

  • Article is Found During Track/After 
  • Canine Leads Handler to Suspect/Correct Sturcture
  • Minimum 30 Minute Set Time
  • Minimum 300 Yard Track Distance

 

Phase II (Building Search)

  • Muzzle (No Equipment Tested)
  • Canine Obedient During Blank Gunfire/Force on Force, Supplied by Canine Tactical
  • Environmental's Tested
  • Recall
  • Canine Indicates and Engages Suspect
  • Officer/Deputy First Mind-Set/Canine Usage Only in Key Areas
  • Handler Graded on Situational Awareness
  • Canine Disengages by Command of Handler
  • Electric Can be Used by Handler Only if Handler can Manipulate both Device and Task Effectively

or  (Building Search by Fire Team)

  • Muzzle (No Equipment Tested)
  • Canine Obedient During Blank Gunfire/Force on Force, Supplied by Canine Tactical
  • Environmental's Tested
  • Recall
  • In-House Fire Team (three good guys) Can be Used or Fire Team is Supplied by Handler
  • Canine Graded on Team Movement and Commands From Other Team Members
  • Handler Graded on Situational Awareness
  • Canine Disengages by Command of Handler
  • Electric Can be Used by Handler Only if Handler can Manipulate both Device and Task Effectively

 

Phase III (Attic Search/Crawl Space)

  • Muzzle (No Equipment Tested)
  • Environmental's Tested
  • Canine Obedient During Blank Gunfire/Force on Force, Supplied by Canine Tactical
  • Recall
  • Canine Disengages by Command of Handler
  • Electric Can be Used by Handler Only if Handler can Manipulate both Device and Task Effectively

 

Phase IV (Tactical Canine Casualty Care)

  • Vitals/Physical Exam
  • Evaluating a Casualty
  • Wound Management
  • Blow Out Kit - Supplied by Canine Tactical

 

Phase V (Detection)

  • Building and Vehicles are Tested
  • Bite to Detection Transition 
  • Variable Reward System (minimum 2:1)
  • Canine Indicates on Target Odors (department SOP)

 

Phase VII (Obedience)

  • Obedience is Tested in All Areas
  • Canine Responds Well With Handler
  • Positive Control Maintained by Handler During Profile

 

Crowd Control - (Optional)

  • No Accidental Bite
  • Proper Usage of Canine by Handler

 

  • $350 per Handler
  • 12/6 Month Certification
  • Pass or Fail Evolutions

 

 

Canine Tactical featured on Warrior Mindset podcast

Learn More About Morton/Method Certification