Dogs Australia Scent Work Trials Rules PDF
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2024
Dogs Australia
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Summary
This document outlines the new rules for the conduct of scent work trials, effective from July 1, 2024. It details the organization of the trial, including the physical layout of the venue, spectator areas, and equipment requirements. It also covers the conduct of the trial including judging criteria and penalties. This document provides the rules and regulations for dog scent work trials across multiple locations in Australia.
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Australian National Kennel Council Ltd ABN 77 151 544 679 trading as Dogs Australia Rules for the conduct of Scent Work Trials Effective from 1st July 2024 Approved by Dogs Australia...
Australian National Kennel Council Ltd ABN 77 151 544 679 trading as Dogs Australia Rules for the conduct of Scent Work Trials Effective from 1st July 2024 Approved by Dogs Australia April 2024 Adopted by the Member Bodies of the Australian National Kennel Council Limited (Australian National Kennel Council Ltd trading as Dogs Australia) AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY Dogs ACT PO Box 815 DICKSON ACT 2602 Phone: (02) 6241 4404 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dogsact.org.au WESTERN AUSTRALIA Dogs West 602 Warton Road SOUTHERN RIVER WA 6110 Phone: (08) 9455 1188 Fax: (08) 9455 1190 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dogswest.com QUEENSLAND Dogs Queensland PO Box 1136 MT OMMANEY QLD 4074 Phone: (07) 3252 2661 Fax: (07) 3252 3864 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dogsqueensland.org.au NORTHERN TERRITORY Dogs NT PO Box 37521 WINNELLIE NT 0821 Phone: (08) 8984 3570 Fax: (08) 8984 3409 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dogsnt.com.au NEW SOUTH WALES Dogs NSW PO Box 632 ST MARYS NSW 1790 Phone: (02) 9834 3022 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dogsnsw.org.au SOUTH AUSTRALIA Dogs SA PO Box 844 PROSPECT EAST SA 5082 Phone: (08) 8349 4797 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dogssa.com.au TASMANIA Dogs Tasmania PO Box 116 GLENORCHY TAS 7010 Phone: (03) 6272 9443 Fax: (03) 6273 0844 Email: [email protected] Website: www.tasdogs.com VICTORIA Dogs Victoria Locked Bag K9 CRANBOURNE VIC 3977 Phone: (03) 9788 2500 Fax: (03) 9788 2599 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dogsvictoria.org.au 2 Contents PART 1 – PRELIMINARY...........................................................................................................................4 1. INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................4 2. DEFINITIONS...........................................................................................................................5 3. DECISIONS..............................................................................................................................7 4. CLASSES, ELEMENTS AND TARGET ODOURS.........................................................................7 5 TITLES......................................................................................................................................9 6 SCENT WORK TRIALS............................................................................................................12 7 EXHIBIT REQUIREMENTS......................................................................................................13 8 ENTRIES.................................................................................................................................13 PART 2 – ORGANISATION OF THE TRIAL................................................................................................. 15 9 ORGANISATION OF THE TRIAL.............................................................................................15 10 PHYSICAL LAYOUT OF TRIAL VENUE....................................................................................17 11 SPECTATORS.........................................................................................................................17 12 PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECORDING DEVICES........................................................................18 13 HANDLERS............................................................................................................................19 14 REMOVAL OF A DOG............................................................................................................20 15 WITHDRAWAL OF A DOG.....................................................................................................21 16 SEARCH AREAS.....................................................................................................................21 17 PREPARATION FOR THE SEARCH AND SET UP OF SEARCH AREAS.....................................21 PART 3 - CONDUCT OF THE TRIAL........................................................................................................... 25 18 DEMONSTRATION DOG.......................................................................................................25 19 CONDUCT OF THE SEARCH...................................................................................................25 PART 4 - JUDGES AND JUDGING............................................................................................................. 30 20 JUDGES.................................................................................................................................30 21 JUDGING...............................................................................................................................30 22 SCORING...............................................................................................................................31 23 MARKS AND PLACINGS........................................................................................................34 SCENT WORK SEARCH REQUIREMENTS BY ELEMENT AND CLASS............................................................ 35 24 CONTAINERS ELEMENT........................................................................................................35 25 INTERIOR ELEMENT..............................................................................................................39 26 EXTERIOR ELEMENT.............................................................................................................42 27 VEHICLES ELEMENT..............................................................................................................44 28 ULTIMATE CLASS SEARCH....................................................................................................47 APPENDIX A : DOGS AUSTRALIA - SCENT WORK JUDGE’S MARK SHEET NOVICE-MASTER........................ 50 APPENDIX B: DOGS AUSTRALIA – SCENT WORK JUDGE’S MARK SHEET - ULTIMATE................................. 51 APPENDIX C: DOGS AUSTRALIA – SCENT WORK - SCENT WORK JUDGE’S CHART...................................... 52 APPENDIX D: SUMMARY OF PENALTIES................................................................................................. 53 APPENDIX E: SAMPLE OFFICIAL SCENT WORK ENTRY FORM................................................................... 59 APPENDIX F GUIDELINES FOR SCENT WORK SCHEDULES......................................................................... 60 3 RULES FOR THE CONDUCT OF SCENT WORK TRIALS PART 1 – PRELIMINARY 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Scent Work is a sport that is based on the task of working detection dogs to locate an odour and communicate to the handler that the odour has been found. Detection is done in a variety of environments and often during changing weather and/or environmental conditions. Scent Work is a positive, challenging activity that allows dogs the opportunity to use their strongest natural sense in a way that is fun, engaging, and builds and strengthens the foundation of trust between the handler and dog. Dogs are trained to recognise specific odours and the handler must observe their dog’s many changes of behaviour when the dog is in odour and leading up to a final alert on the hide. Dogs may use any non-destructive behaviour to alert their handlers to the location of the hide. Handlers take their dogs through a search area which may be set up in a variety of environments. The dog and handler must work together as a team. The handler as part of the team may use body language and verbal encouragement to ensure all sections of the search area are covered, directing the dog’s search when necessary and indicating to the Judge when the dog has found the hide. Communication with and praise of the dog during the search is encouraged. 1.2 These Scent Work Rules encompass an Odour Search Division. 1.3 The purpose of these Rules is to encourage owners, trainers and handlers to further develop and extend their skills by participating in the discipline of Scent Work. The Rules are designed in such a way that, wherever possible, dogs and handlers of all abilities can compete on an equal footing. The Rules also promote the welfare of the dog as paramount. 1.4 If interpretation of these Rules is required, clarification should be sought, in writing, through the relevant member body, from the appropriate Committee of Dogs Australia. The Committee’s decision shall be binding. 1.5 Any person entering a Dogs Australia Scent Work trial does so at their own risk. 1.6 The National Scent Work Committee shall review the Rules at five-yearly intervals from the date of implementation of the Rules from this review (that is, 1 July 2024). 4 2. DEFINITIONS Where referred to in these Rules, the following words will have the meanings assigned to them below: “Active search area”: Areas for which the hide has been set must be separated so as not to confuse a dog who is working. Odour from a nearby search area should never be accessible to a searching dog. “Affiliate”: Any Club affiliated with a Dogs Australia member body. “Alert”: A communication from the handler to the Judge that the dog has indicated the location of the hide. “Dogs Australia member body” or “member body”: The Dogs Australia member body in each State or Territory of Australia. “Blank area”: A search area in which there are no hides. “Change of behaviour”: Behaviour by the dog which makes it clear to the Judge that the dog has found the hide. This could be subtle, such as movement of the ears, or overt such as sitting or gently pawing at the location. “Contamination”: When a handler or dog violates the integrity of the search area or hide such that significant time, replacement objects, and/or a relocation of the hide is required to bring the search area back to a usable condition. “Demonstration dog”: An accomplished dog which has relevant experience in that Class or Element in the Division. “Disruption”: Disruption may occur when a handler touches or a dog moves or damages an object(s) in the search area such that significant time, replacement of objects, and/or a relocation of a hide is required to bring the search area back to a usable condition. “Find”: A hide that has been located by the dog and called by the handler. “Finish”: In Classes with more than one hide, the handler is required to call “Finish” when they believe that all hides for a search area have been located and called, or a blank area is cleared. The “Finish” call stops the official search time. “Hide”: A source of the target odour within a search area. A hide will consist of target odour on a scent aid placed in a scent vessel or container. Depending on the Class and Element, the search area may have multiple hides. “Indication” or “alert behaviour”: A non-destructive behaviour on the part of the dog that communicates to the handler that the hide has been found (see “Change of behaviour”). “Odour” or “target odour”: The specific scent or scents used to infuse scent aids. “Scent aid”: A cotton filter or cotton bud that is permeated with the target odour. “Scent vessel”: A receptacle for holding the scent aid which is then used as the hide in a search area. It may be any small object that prevents the scent aid from coming into direct contact with any object or surface in the search area, and that allows odour to escape. Due to safety concerns, 5 scent vessels must never be made of glass, ceramics, china or other breakable materials of this type. “Search area”: The area at the trial venue where the actual searching and judging activities take place. “Search area precinct”: The area under the control of the Judge which includes the “search area” and the surrounds of the search area. The Judge is responsible for all decisions, including the issuing of penalties (for example, for fouling, physical guidance), while searching teams are in this area, whether searching, or preparing to search or leave after judging has ceased. “Start line”: The section of the search area boundary that the dog should cross to commence the search. The start line will be clearly delineated. “Target odour” or “odour”: The specific scent or scents for which the dog is searching in a particular Class/Element. 6 3. DECISIONS 3.1 Decisions of the Committee of the Affiliate conducting any Scent Work trial shall be subject to appeal to the relevant Dogs Australia member body in accordance with the rules of that member body. 3.2 The rules of the member body shall apply to any Scent Work trial and to any Affiliate conducting trials. In the event of any inconsistency, the member body rules shall prevail. 3.3 Anyone taking part in a trial who openly impugns the actions or decisions of the Judge shall render themselves liable to be debarred from further participation in the trial. They may be ordered from the trial grounds and further dealt with in accordance with the rules of the relevant member body. 4. CLASSES, ELEMENTS AND TARGET ODOURS 4.1 Search requirements are set out in detail in Part 5 Scent Work Search Requirements. 4.2 Classes There will be five (5) Classes within the Odour Search Division. Factors such as the size of the search area, the number of hides, whether the number of hides is known or unknown to the handler, the introduction of distractions, the maximum height of the hides and the complexity of the scent puzzles presented to the dog will change increase through the Classes. The Classes are: (a) Novice: is a basic search with one (1) hide. The dog detects an odour within the search area and works the scent cone back to the strongest concentration of odour. The Novice Class is intended to test the dog for basic odour obedience and understanding of indicating source (the hide). (b) Advanced: is a simple search with two (2) hides and the introduction of a non-food distraction. The Advanced Class is intended to test the dog with the increased challenge of sourcing odour from two (2) hides within a larger area or with an increased number of containers or vehicles, and similar search times to the Novice Class. The Advanced Class tests the dog’s ability to move on from one hide to finding another, while ignoring the distraction. (c) Excellent: is a complex search within larger areas or with an increased number of vehicles or containers, two (2) distractions and with at least one (1) difficult hide of the three (3) required in the Class. The Excellent Class is intended to challenge the dog to solve a complex scent puzzle(s) including the possibility of inaccessible hides, converging and eddying odour, and elevation. It requires a greater degree of teamwork between the dog and handler to be successful. (d) Master: includes complex search puzzles such as inaccessible hides, pooling, eddying and channelling odour within larger and multiple search areas, blank areas and an increased number of vehicles or containers. The number of hides is unknown and there are three (3) distractions. The Master Class is intended to test the teamwork between the dog and handler to work efficiently and effectively. The dog 7 must be able to work with resilience and persistence in the presence of complex odour problems. The handler must be able to read the dog and determine when all the hides have been found or all areas cleared of hides, as well as manage time to ensure the search area is covered. (e) Ultimate: provides an integrated search environment combining at least three (3) of the four (4) Elements from the Odour Search Division, which are worked as one search. The number of hides and distractions is unknown to the handler. The dog and handler must work autonomously to resolve the challenges set by the Judge in the search area. The team will need to demonstrate sustained resilience and persistence and work in a timely, efficient and effective manner to complete the search. They must be confident that they have identified all the hides present and cleared all search areas before calling “Finish”. 4.3 Elements There will be four Elements: (a) Containers: the hide shall be concealed within a container, and the dog must indicate which container has the hide. (b) Interior: the hide shall be concealed on, under or in an object or concealed within the environment in an indoor search area. (c) Exterior: the hide shall be concealed on, under or in an object or concealed within the environment in an outdoor search area. (d) Vehicles: the hide shall be concealed on the exterior of a vehicle. 4.4 Target odours The target odour can be one (1) or more pure essential oils (that is, they should not include carrier oils) and shall be: (a) Birch (Betula lenta) (b) Anise (Pimpinella anisum) (c) Clove (Syzygium aromaticum - also known as Eugenia caryophyllata) (d) Cypress (Cupressus sempevirens). 4.5 These odours may be used in any Class as follows: (a) Novice Classes shall use one (1) of these target odours across the Elements offered (b) Advanced Classes may use two (2) of these target odours across the Elements offered (c) Excellent Classes may use three (3) of these target odours across the Elements offered (d) Master Classes may use the four (4) target odours across the Elements offered (e) Ultimate Classes may use the four (4) target odours in the search. The Affiliate will advertise which target odours will be used in each Class in the 8 Schedule. 4.6 The National Scent Work Committee may recommend to Dogs Australia the inclusion of additional and/or substitute target odours, having regard in particular to the availability of the relevant oil(s) and/or any research findings regarding particular oils. 5 TITLES 5.1 All dogs eligible to be entered in a Scent Work trial in accordance with these Rules shall be eligible to receive Qualifying Certificates upon meeting the requirements in Rule 5.2. 5.2 Qualifying Certificates All searches will be judged as qualified/not qualified. To be awarded a Qualifying Certificate, a team must: (a) locate all hides (b) not incur any Non-Qualifying Faults, and (c) complete the search within the allotted search time. 5.3 Application for titles 5.3.1 When the dog has gained the required number of Qualifying Certificates, an application for a title shall be submitted to the member body in the appropriate format, accompanied by the prescribed fee. 5.3.2 Upon approval by the member body, a Dogs Australia title certificate authorizing the use of the relevant title letters after the dog’s name will be issued to the applicant. 5.3.3 On gaining the title Scent Work Ultimate (SWU) the highest of any previous Class titles for example, SWA, SWE, SWM is retained along with the new title SWU as this title is independently rather than sequentially achieved. 5.3.4 For the title of Scent Work Champion (SW Ch.), the title will appear at the beginning of the dog’s name and all other Scent Work titles will be removed from after the dog’s name. 5.3.5 Passes gained in each Class and Element may be used as Qualifying Certificates for both the Scent Work Class Titles and the Scent Work Element Titles. 5.3.6 All Qualifying Certificates gained in the Master Interior Class towards a Scent Work Master title and/or a Scent Work Element title that were gained prior to 1 July 2024 will remain valid and count towards these titles even if the titles are gained after 1 July 2024. 9 5.4 Titles available 5.4.1 Scent Work Class Titles (a) ‘SWN’ signifying Scent Work Novice when the dog has gained a total of six (6) Qualifying Certificates in the Novice Class under at least two (2) different Judges. There must be at least one (1) Qualifying Certificate in each of the four Elements and two (2) Qualifying Certificates in two (2) of the Elements. (b) ‘SWA’ signifying Scent Work Advanced when the dog has achieved its Novice title and gained a total of nine (9) Qualifying Certificates in the Advanced Class under at least two (2) different Judges. There must at least two (2) Qualifying Certificates in each of three Elements, and three (3) Qualifying Certificates in the remaining Element. (c) ‘SWE’ signifying Scent Work Excellent when the dog has achieved its Advanced title and gained three (3) Qualifying Certificates in each Element making a total of twelve (12) Qualifying Certificates in the Excellent Class under at least two (2) different Judges. (d) ‘SWM’ signifying Scent Work Master when the dog has achieved its Excellent title and gained three (3) Qualifying Certificates in each Element, making a total of twelve (12) Qualifying Certificates in the Master Class under at least two (2) different Judges. (e) ‘SWU’ signifying Scent Work Ultimate when the dog has achieved its Master title or two (2) Element titles and gained five (5) Qualifying Certificates in the Ultimate Class under at least three (3) different Judges. The requirements for Scent Work Class Titles are summarized below: SCENT WORK CLASS TITLES NOVICE ADVANCED EXCELLENT MASTER ULTIMATE CLASS (SWN) (SWA) (SWE) (SWM) (SWU) ELEMENT MINIMUM NUMBER OF QUALIFYING CERTIFICATES CONTAINERS 1 2 3 3 INTERIOR 1 2 3 3 EXTERIOR 1 2 3 3 VEHICLES 1 2 3 3 SELECTED FROM ABOVE 2 1 ELEMENTS MIN TOTAL NO OF QUALIFYING 6 9 12 12 5 CERTIFICATES MIN NO OF JUDGES 2 2 2 2 3 10 5.4.2 Scent Work Element Titles Scent Work Element titles require the dog to gain a total of eleven (11) Qualifying Certificates in the relevant Element: (a) comprising two (2) Qualifying Certificates in the Novice Class and three (3) Qualifying Certificates in each of the Advanced, Excellent and Master Classes in the relevant Element, (b) under at least two (2) different Judges. The titles gained will be: (a) ‘SWC’ signifying the Scent Work Containers Element (b) ‘SWI’ signifying the Scent Work Interior Element (c) ‘SWX’ signifying the Scent Work Exterior Element (d) ‘SWV’ signifying the Scent Work Vehicles Element. The requirements for Scent Work Element titles are summarized below. SCENT WORK ELEMENT TITLES CONTAINERS INTERIOR EXTERIOR VEHICLES ELEMENT/ (SWC) (SWI) (SWX) (SWV) CLASS MINIMUM NUMBER OF QUALIFYING CERTIFICATES NOVICE 2 2 2 2 ADVANCED 3 3 3 3 EXCELLENT 3 3 3 3 MASTERS 3 3 3 3 MIN TOTAL NO OF QUALIFYING 11 11 11 11 CERTIFICATES MIN NO OF JUDGES 2 2 2 2 5.3.3 Scent Work Champion Only the elite dogs will qualify for the title of Scent Work Champion (SW Ch.). To be eligible for this title, a dog must obtain the following six (6) titles: Class: Scent Work Master (SWM) Scent Work Ultimate (SWU) Element: Scent Work Containers (SWC) Scent Work Interior (SWI) Scent Work Exterior (SWX) Scent Work Vehicles (SWV) 11 6 SCENT WORK TRIALS The scheduling of any Scent Work trial shall be subject to the approval of the relevant member body. An Affiliate conducting a Scent Work trial is not required to offer all Elements or Classes at the trial that is, an Affiliate can offer one or some or all Elements and Classes. 6.1 Titling Classes 6.1.1 The following titling classes are available: (a) Novice: For dogs that have not gained the Qualifying Certificates necessary for the Scent Work Novice title or have not gained two (2) Qualifying Certificates in the Novice Class for an Element as part of qualifying towards the relevant Scent Work Element title. Dogs obtaining two (2) Qualifying Certificates in the Novice Class for any Element are no longer eligible to compete in that Novice Element and must move up to the Advanced Class for that Element. (b) Advanced: For dogs that have qualified for the Scent Work Novice title or have gained two (2) Qualifying Certificates in the Novice Class for an Element as part of qualifying towards the relevant Scent Work Element title. Dogs obtaining three (3) Qualifying Certificates in the Advanced Class for any Element are no longer eligible to compete in that Advanced Element and must move up to the Excellent Class for that Element. (c) Excellent: For dogs that have qualified for the Scent Work Advanced title or have gained three (3) Qualifying Certificates in the Advanced Class for an Element as part of qualifying towards the relevant Scent Work Element title. Dogs gaining three (3) Qualifying Certificates in the Excellent Class for any Element may continue to compete in that Element and/or may move up to the Master Class. (d) Master: For dogs that have qualified for the Scent Work Excellent title or have gained three (3) Qualifying Certificates in the Excellent Class for an Element as part of qualifying towards the relevant Scent Work Element title. Dogs gaining three (3) Qualifying Certificates in the Master Class for any Element may continue to compete in that Element. (e) Ultimate: For dogs that have qualified for the Scent Work Master Class title or two (2) Element titles (that is, two of either SWC and/or SWI and/or SWX and/or SWV). Dogs gaining their SWU title may continue to compete in the Ultimate Class. 6.2 Progression through Titling Classes 6.2.1 Dogs may progress through Elements at different speeds (for example, a dog may compete in Novice Interior and Advanced Containers at the same trial). 6.2.2 A dog which has completed two (2) Qualifying Certificates in any Element in the Novice Class or three (3) Qualifying Certificates in any Element in the Advanced Class may not compete further in that Element in that Class unless the final qualification was gained after the closing date of entries for the trial. Upgrade to the next Class (if available at 12 the trial) may be allowed at the discretion of the Trial Secretary. 6.2.3 A dog that is eligible to compete in the Excellent, Master or Ultimate Class may continue to do so in these Classes, regardless of whether they have gained titles in those Classes or not. 6.2.4 At the discretion of the Affiliate’s Trial Secretary, a handler who completes the necessary Qualifying Certificates for a title and has applied to the member body for that title after the closing date for a trial, may request and be transferred to the next higher Class. 6.2.5 Dogs can pursue both their Scent Work Class and Scent Work Element titles at the same time. That is, Qualifying Certificates gained towards Scent Work Class titles can be counted towards the dog qualifying for Scent Work Element titles and vice versa. 6.3 Non-titling Classes An Affiliate conducting a Scent Work trial may, at its discretion, offer non-titling Classes. Qualifying Certificates cannot be awarded for these Classes. 7 EXHIBIT REQUIREMENTS 7.1 Eligibility of exhibits Scent Work trials are open to dogs that are: (a) registered with the relevant member body, and (b) 6 months of age or over on the first day of a sanctioned Scent Work trial. 8 ENTRIES 8.1.1 All entries must be in a format providing the required data as per the example at Appendix E and in accordance with the member body rules and the timelines published in the Schedule. 8.1.2 A separate entry form must be submitted for each entry. 8.1.3 At any trial a dog may be entered in only one (1) Class within an Element. That is, a dog cannot be entered in Novice and Advanced Containers at the same trial. 8.1.4 A dog may be entered in both titling and non-titling Classes when the latter are offered by the Affiliate conducting the trial. 8.2 Entry limits 8.2.1 An Affiliate may determine which Classes and Elements will be offered in any trial and will specify such details in the Schedule. 8.2.2 An Affiliate may place limits on the number of entries that a Judge can judge at any trial and/or on the number of entries to be accepted in a single Class/Element, set of Classes /Elements or trial. Any such limit(s) on total entries or entries in any Class/Element or for any Judge must be stated in the Schedule. If a ballot of entries is necessary, the balloting procedures of the member body or 13 Affiliate (when the member body has no procedure) shall be followed. 8.2.3 An Affiliate may appoint an additional Judge if entry numbers exceed the stated limit. 14 PART 2 – ORGANISATION OF THE TRIAL 9 ORGANISATION OF THE TRIAL 9.1 Trial requisites The Affiliate conducting the trial will organize and/or supply: (a) All physical requisites for set up of the search area(s) and supplies for Judges and stewards that is, suitable vehicles, props, timing devices, boundary markers and so on. (b) Containers: i. for each of the target odour(s) for each of the Container Classes being held ii. to act as empty containers. Surplus containers must be available to replace any damaged or contaminated containers iii. one warm-up container per target odour used in the trial to place in the warm- up area. (c) Officials to support the Judge in the conduct of the trial including Hide Stewards, Official Timers/Scribes, Assembly Stewards, and other support people as required. (d) Scent aids and scent vessels: The Affiliate may delegate responsibility for supplying these to the contracted Judge (or a local judge if travel precludes the contracted Judge from supplying them) and this must be stated in the judging contract. (e) Distractions and props: Judges may supply distraction items and search area props if required. The Judge will communicate with the Trial Secretary prior to the trial if they propose to bring distractions and props. 9.2 Registration and attendance 9.2.1 Handlers are responsible for registering their presence with the Trial Secretary or nominee prior to the commencement of the trial, as specified in the Schedule. 9.2.2 Handlers shall follow the direction of trial officials regarding waiting arrangements for their search. It is the handler’s responsibility to ensure that they are in the nominated area and ready to commence their search when required. 9.3 Welfare of dogs 9.3.1 All handlers whose dogs are entered at a member body sanctioned event shall take all reasonable steps to ensure the needs of their dog are met and shall not put their dog’s health or welfare at risk by any action, default, omission or otherwise. 9.3.2 The Affiliate will take all reasonable steps to ensure that all dogs can participate in a safe and relaxed manner and will comply with any rules of the relevant member body regarding the conduct of trials, including those relating to weather or climatic conditions. 9.3.3 It is the handler’s responsibility to ensure that their dog is physically well, and capable of safely executing all the requirements of the search. Dogs with physical or behavioural challenges (including amputees, deaf and/or blind dogs) may participate 15 provided that, in the opinion of the Judge, they display no signs of physical discomfort or stress and can safely complete the requirements of the Class. 9.3.4 Dogs may be inspected as required by the relevant member body. 9.4 Bitches in oestrum 9.4.1 Entire bitches may be vetted. Bitches in oestrum or showing a coloured discharge of any sort shall not be permitted to compete in any trial or to remain within the trial venue precinct. 9.5 Dog attire 9.5.1 During a search, a dog shall only wear a fixed collar and/or a suitable harness and a lead. When a dog is on-lead, the lead must be connected to the collar or harness. 9.5.2 A dog may wear such accessories (for example, paw covers or booties, jackets, and/or hair ties or bows) as the handler deems necessary for the purpose of enabling the dog to safely navigate the search area. A dog may wear a flea and/or tick collar. 9.5.3 Dogs must not wear: (a) any kind of electric, prong, choke, limited slip (for example, martingales) or slip collars, head halters or no-pull harnesses (b) odour emitting collars (such as no-bark collars that spray citronella, or DAP calming collars) (c) any item attached to the dog’s collar or harness, including cameras. Council ID tags may be taped in place (d) anything other than mentioned in Rules 9.5.1 and 9.5.2. 9.5.4 The lead should be made of a pliable material. Chain leads must not be used. Retractable leads may be used. Any length of lead is permitted for use during the search. The lead can be used to gently direct the dog away from the boundaries of the search area but cannot be used as a correction device or to guide the dog towards the hide. 9.5.5 For the duration of the trial, all dogs must be on a lead or otherwise restrained (for example, in a crate or car) unless in a designated off-lead area. Dogs will enter and leave the search area on-lead under the control of the handler. 9.5.6 Most searches will be conducted entirely on lead, but an off-lead option may be offered at the discretion of the Judge. The handler may remove the lead in the search area precinct at any point after the Judge has indicated they can commence the search. The handler may remove and/or reattach the lead during the search without further discussion with the Judge. 16 10 PHYSICAL LAYOUT OF TRIAL VENUE 10.1 Trial venue 10.1.1 Where the trial venue is a sub-set of a larger venue, the specific buildings and assembly and search areas will be set out in the Catalogue to define the boundaries of the trial area. 10.1.2 Affiliates should ensure that the trial venue provides adequate lighting for the duration of the trial. 10.1.3 There shall be no training utilizing the Scent Work target odours on the grounds of a Dogs Australia Scent Work trial, other than in the designated warm-up area. Breach of this Rule shall result in Disqualification. 10.1.4 The Affiliate shall provide an area where Judges and/or Hide Stewards can store target odours and prepare hides. Other attendees at the trial, including handlers, shall arrange with the Trial Secretary to store any target odour in their possession in this area for the duration of the trial. The area should be a suitable distance from any of the search areas. 10.2 Assembly area 10.2.1 The Affiliate shall establish an assembly area for searching teams out of view of the search area(s) with signs posted so that no person inadvertently moves into view of the search area. 10.2.2 The assembly area will include all parking, crating, warm-up, and waiting areas, as well as the Trial Secretary’s table for registration and posting of the running order. The assembly area and search area(s) shall be separated by geographical features, walls, and/or artificial barriers. 10.3 Warm-up area 10.3.1 The Affiliate shall designate a warm-up area. 10.3.2 Affiliates should make every effort to place warm-up boxes at an appropriate distance from the assembly and search areas so as not to unreasonably interfere with any team preparing to search. 10.3.3 One (1) labelled container per target odour being used in the trial will be placed in the warm-up area to allow teams to prepare for their search. Affiliates may also place blank containers in the warm-up area if they choose. 10.3.4 Handlers should not allow their dogs to eliminate in the warm-up area or unnecessarily damage warm-up containers out of respect for subsequent searching dogs. 11 SPECTATORS 11.1 Spectator area 11.1.1 At the discretion of the Judge having regard to the available space, spectators may be permitted to observe any Class other than Novice. Every effort should be made to allow 17 spectators to observe at least part of an Ultimate Class search. Handlers participating in the Ultimate Class may not spectate the Class until after the completion of their search. 11.1.2 Where spectators are allowed, under the direction of the Judge, the Affiliate will establish a dedicated spectator area(s) at least eight (8) metres from the search area(s). The number of spectators permitted may be limited due to the size of the search and/or spectator area(s). No dogs shall be permitted in the spectator area(s). 11.1.3 Affiliates shall delineate the boundaries of the spectator area so that spectators do not inadvertently enter the search area. 11.1.4 Entry into and exit from the spectator area shall be as directed by officials. 11.1.5 Spectators shall take care not to act in a manner that may distract handlers and dogs in the search area and search area precinct. 11.1.6 There shall be no food or drinks in the spectator area. 11.1.7 Spectators will usually be required to remain in the spectator area from commencement to completion of the Class. However, the Judge may determine that there is a suitable opportunity and it is appropriate to allow spectators to come into and leave the search area precinct during the Class. 11.1.8 The Judge or their nominee shall brief spectators prior to the Class commencing about expected behaviours while in the search area precinct. 11.2 Communication between spectators and handlers 11.2.1 Spectators shall not discuss or share video footage or photographs of the search area or teams’ searches before the conclusion of the Class/Element. This includes sharing with handlers or other people privately, electronically or via social media platforms. Any team whose handler is involved in such a discussion or sharing or viewing such footage or images will be disqualified. 11.2.2 No spectator or other person may assist the handler or disclose the location of the hide. Spectators should take care to remain neutral to not provide clues to the handler. A Judge may disqualify a team that they reasonably believe has benefited from double handling. 11.2.3 Spectators who intentionally or unintentionally assist a handler may be directed by the Judge to leave the spectator area or the trial venue and be reported to the member body. 12 PHOTOGRAPHY AND RECORDING DEVICES 12.1 A handler may arrange photography and/or videoing of the team’s search by: (a) an official of the Affiliate (if one is available) (b) a spectator (in circumstances where the Judge has permitted spectators to observe the search), or 18 (c) use of a wearable camera by the handler. 12.2 Videotaping and/or photography may only be undertaken on behalf of the handler for their own personal use or, with the prior permission of the handler, by the Affiliate, for promotional or educational purposes. 12.3 A handler or trial official may request to not be photographed or videoed. 12.4 The Affiliate may, after consultation with the Judge, designate an area within the search area precinct from which videotaping/photography may be undertaken. 12.5 The videographer/photographer must not be situated within the search area. They must not distract the searching dog nor should they be positioned in such a way as to give clues to a hide location. There should be no audible sound from the camera. 12.6 The Judge may direct that any photography and/or videoing be discontinued if it is deemed to be disruptive to or impedes any search or any Class. 12.7 No photograph or video footage can be used to challenge the Judge’s decision. 13 HANDLERS 13.1 Persons of differing abilities may compete, provided they can move about the search area without physical assistance or guidance. The use of mobility aids is acceptable. This can include hand or electric powered aids for example, a wheelchair, electric powered or motorised device, crutches or a cane. The dog must perform all necessary requirements of their search as per these Rules. 13.2 Handlers must be: (a) at least 16 years of age, and (b) registered and a current financial member of a member body. 13.3 Handlers may not handle more than one (1) dog in the same Element within a Class Multiple dogs from the same owner may be entered in the same Element within a Class, provided each is handled by a different handler. It is the owner/handler’s responsibility to ensure that the second handler is registered with a Dogs Australia member body. The handler’s name (if not the owner) shall be recorded in the Catalogue. 13.4 No handler or other person, other than those engaged in the administration of the trial, shall be in possession of any of the target odours within the boundaries of the trial venue or subset of the venue as specified in the Catalogue. 13.5 Handlers arriving at a trial with target odours must notify the Trial Secretary when checking in. The Trial Secretary will arrange for the odours to be stored in the hide preparation area for the duration of the trial. 13.6 After a dog has commenced competing in a Class/Element, no substitution of a handler is permitted in that Class/Element. 19 13.7 Any person who carries out punitive correction or harsh handling of any dog at any time within the precincts of the trial venue shall be disqualified from the trial and reported to and dealt with under the member body rules. 13.8 A handler may give the dog verbal commands and/or encouragement and shall not be penalised for such actions. Physical touch as encouragement or reward before or after completion of a search shall not be penalised. Physical touch that provides guidance or direction to the dog may result in penalties up to a Non-Qualifying Fault (NQ). 13.9 Handlers may wear a training vest or treat pouch, acceptable to the Judge, to carry food or toy rewards. However, a Qualifying Fault shall be imposed if food is dropped or the toy is thrown or dropped in the search area or the search area precinct. 13.10 Handlers must wear appropriate footwear that complies with the safety requirements of the member body. Bare feet, thongs and scuffs must not be worn. 13.11 Handlers may only indicate their search outcome with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ (thumbs up or thumbs down) after leaving the search area. 13.12 Handlers must not divulge any information about the search, the location of the hide, or details of their search until all teams have completed the particular Class/Element. Breach of this Rule will result in Disqualification from the trial and all results achieved at the trial will be voided. 13.13 Handlers are responsible for ensuring that any person attending a trial with them is aware of the prohibition against discussing searches. Where a person not entered in the trial is found to have discussed/be discussing a search before the Class/Element has ended, the Judge or responsible Affiliate official may direct that person to leave the trial venue. The handler whom that person is accompanying may, at the Judge’s discretion, be held responsible and penalised in accordance with this Rule. Both may be reported to the member body. 13.14 The Trial Secretary will allocate handlers a trial number for each entry submitted. Handlers are required to wear their trial number during their searches. Numbers and names of the handler and dog, together with other relevant information, will be listed in the Trial Catalogue. 14 REMOVAL OF A DOG 14.1 Any dog that attacks or displays aggressive behaviour towards any person or another dog shall be removed and disqualified from all trialling on the day. The matter shall be addressed in accordance with the incident reporting procedures of the relevant member body. 14.2 The Judge shall exclude or order the removal from the trial of: (a) any dog which is deemed disorderly or unmanageable or which the Judge considers unfit to compete or to be exhibiting extreme stress or fear (b) any person who interferes wilfully with another handler or a handler’s dog or whose behaviour is objectionable. 20 15 WITHDRAWAL OF A DOG 15.1 A handler may withdraw a dog before or during judging by notifying the Judge or nominated official. Following such a withdrawal, the team will not be able to take any further part in that search. 15.2 If a handler withdraws from a Class/Element, no scores shall be awarded and the score sheet shall be marked “Withdrawn (W/D)”. If a handler withdraws, no placing shall be awarded to that entry. 16 SEARCH AREAS 16.1 Search areas must provide firm, safe footing and adequate lighting for dogs and handlers. However, outdoor searches are frequently done across natural, uneven surfaces and it is the handler’s responsibility to be aware of and prepared for this possibility. 16.2 Wherever possible, the Affiliate shall submit specific dimensions and layouts of the proposed search area(s) to the Judge no later than thirty (30) days prior to the trial date to assist in search area design. This shall include information on structural obstacles and other objects in the space such as furniture, drains, potential props and so on. Ideally, photographs will be submitted with the layout so that the Judge has a clear understanding of the search area prior to designing the search. It is recognised that a search area layout may change when the Judge reaches the venue and assesses the conditions. 16.3 Search areas will be determined by the Judge and may be any shape. The size of the search area is determined by the Judge having regard to the Class and Element. 16.4 Search areas of unconventional shapes may not be amenable to an easy calculation of area size. The required search area sizes specified in the Class/Element descriptions shall be approximated to the best of the Judge’s ability but are not expected to be exact in all situations. 16.5 The search area will be identified by boundary markers or gating material of any kind, provided it is safe for dogs, officials, handlers, and spectators. It shall be highly visible to handlers and the Judge and not obscure the Judge’s vision of searching teams. 17 PREPARATION FOR THE SEARCH AND SET UP OF SEARCH AREAS 17.1 Preparation and storage of odours 17.1.1 It is recommended that where possible a Judge prepare the target odour(s) for a trial. 17.1.2 The “scent aids” must be cotton buds or cotton filters. If cotton buds are used, only those with paper stems (not plastic) may be used. The cotton buds should be cut in half with the stems trimmed shorter, if preferred. 17.1.3 To prepare the scent aids for trial, ONE cotton ball shall be used as a carrier vial. This 21 cotton ball is NOT to be used as a scent aid in a trial, but merely acts as an infuser vessel. This cotton ball should have 2 drops of target odour oil dripped onto it and be placed in the bottom of an airtight 250ml glass jar. Do not allow the odour vial or dispenser to touch the cotton ball. Thirty (30) pre-cut cotton buds or cotton filters should be placed into this jar. 17.1.4 Once complete, the jar should be made airtight, shaken vigorously and left to stand in a cool dark place for at least 48 hours and not exceeding thirty (30) days. The jar shall be shaken from time to time during this period to ensure all cotton buds or filters are infused equally. 17.1.5 Glass must always be used for scent preparation and storage because the essential oils are corrosive and will break down plastic containers, changing the chemical composition and affecting the scent. Plastic may be used for scent vessels, but the scent aid must be removed from the plastic scent vessel for storage. 17.1.6 All scent vessels used at a trial must be new and unused. 17.2 Number of scent aids 17.2.1 The recommended number of ‘scent aids’ used in a scent vessel is between one (1) and three (3). The Judge will decide how many ‘scent aids’ to use guided by the type of search and nature of the environmental conditions. 17.3 Layout of search area 17.3.1 The Judge will determine the layout of the search area, selection of scent vessel(s) and the placement of all hides in the search area, taking care to create a challenging search for each Class, but one that is not unreasonably difficult. The complexity and challenge of the search should correspond to the increasing Class requirements. 17.4 Placement of hides 17.4.1 The scent vessel may be affixed to an object or surface with tape, adhesive or by any other method, so long as it does not harm the object or surface. 17.4.2 The Judge or Hide Steward (under the direction of the Judge) shall undertake the physical placement of the hides and any subsequent adjustment to the hides. Non- powdered latex, vinyl or nitrile gloves should be worn when setting the hides. The hides must be placed at least ten (10) minutes before a search commences. 17.4.3 To minimise contamination, only the person placing the hide may handle the scent vessel or container, and they shall not handle any other objects in the search area. Used gloves shall be disposed in a designated place, away from the warm-up and search area, for later disposal. 17.5 Distances between hides 17.5.1 As a guide for Judges, in the Interior and Exterior Elements, minimum distances between hides containing the same odour and hides containing different odours will apply in Classes which have multiple hides. This will depend on the search area provided. Minimum distances do not apply in the Containers and Vehicles Elements. 22 Class Same odour Different odours Novice N/A N/A Advanced 2.5m 2.0m Excellent 2.0m 1.5m Master 1.5m 1.0m Ultimate 60cm 45cm 17.6.1 Consistent location of hide 17.6.1 The hide must remain in the same location for each team in the Class/Element, unless the hide location is contaminated or circumstances arise which, in the opinion of the Judge, require relocation of the hide. 17.6.2 If the Judge determines that a hide must be relocated during the running of a Class/ Element, it should be moved to a location that presents the same challenges as at the original location. The location of the original hide should be wiped with a non-scented alcohol wipe for example, isopropyl, isopropanol or isocol. The relocated scent vessel must be left to stand in the new hide location for a minimum of ten (10) minutes before the next dog is run. 17.6.3 The hide may be relocated between Classes but must be left in the new location for a minimum of ten (10) minutes before the first dog in the next Class begins their search. 17.6.4 Where a hide is relocated, the previous hide location should be clearly marked and communicated to handlers. At least one other area of similar size in the search area should also be wiped with alcohol wipes. 17.7 Accessible and inaccessible hides 17.7.1 A hide is considered accessible if a dog can pinpoint the exact location of the hide. 17.7.2 A hide is considered inaccessible if it is positioned in a location where no dog (regardless of size, shape or agility) can pinpoint the exact location of the hide. Dogs should be able to indicate the approximate location of the hide. 17.8 Distraction items 17.8.1 Certain searches as determined by the Class will include distractions. Distractions must be no closer than fifty (50) cm to a hide. 17.8.2 Distractions may be drawn from the following types: (a) Non-food distraction Any item, other than food, that might be enticing to a dog. The non-food distraction may not contain any artificial scent (such as another essential oil, a perfume, or a scented lotion), but it may contain the scent of another animal (such as a cat toy). A non-food distraction should not be any kind of animal product that can be used as dog food for example, dried cow’s ear, wallaby tail. 23 (b) Food distraction Any substance a dog may be reasonably expected to consume for example, human food or dog food. The food must be in a container. The searching dog should not be able to consume the food and/or the container. Animal excrement or substances which may be harmful to dogs or humans may not be used. (c) Mimic distraction An object such as a toy or doll that looks realistic. It may not include a taxidermy specimen. If a mimic distraction is used, the Affiliate must provide a duplicate mimic distraction in case a dog contaminates the original distraction. (d) Human distraction A person, other than the Judge, who is present inside the search area. The human distraction shall be clothed in normal street attire and not be dressed in a costume that significantly alters their shape or appearance as a human. They may be standing or sitting, and may look at the dog, but shall not maintain eye contact if the dog’s attention should turn to them. The human distraction shall not speak to or intentionally touch the dog. 24 PART 3 - CONDUCT OF THE TRIAL 18 DEMONSTRATION DOG 18.1 After the hide(s) has been set, a demonstration dog should, where possible, run the search area blind to evaluate the appropriateness of the search for the Class as designed. If the demonstration dog encounters unexpected difficulty, the Judge may adjust the search time and/or the hide location(s) in accordance with these Rules. 18.2 In situations where the Affiliate is unable to provide a demonstration dog, the first dog in the running order will complete the search. Based on this search the Judge will determine whether the search as designed is acceptable. If the first dog to run encounters unforeseen difficulties that is, the dog is unable to find the hide and the Judge decides to adjust the hide location(s) in accordance with these Rules, the dog’s first search will be discounted and the dog will be given the opportunity to re-run at the end of the Class/Element without penalty. 19 CONDUCT OF THE SEARCH 19.1 General 19.1.1 As they progress through the Classes, the standard and quality of the work presented by a team should increase and should be judged accordingly. 19.1.2 The search area will be clearly defined by boundaries, but a dog may need to work outside the search area while following odour. The dog and handler may cross search area boundaries during the search without penalty. 19.2 Handlers’ briefing 19.2.1 The Judge shall conduct a short handlers’ briefing prior to the start of each Class/ Element. The briefing may be in front of the search area or in an area away from the search area. The location will be at the Judge’s discretion. 19.2.2 In the handlers’ briefing the Judge shall indicate: (a) if there is an off-lead option (b) how many hides there are (in Classes where the number of hides is known) (c) the maximum height of the hides (d) for Interior searches only, the number of different search areas, and (e) the maximum time for each search. 19.2.3 Handlers may ask questions about the search area and clarify relevant Rules as required during the briefing. 19.2.4 No dogs may be present during the handlers’ briefing. 19.3 Judging schedule Handlers within a Class/Element shall run in catalogue order. The steward, in consultation with the Judge, has the discretion to allow a dog to be judged out of 25 sequence at the request of the handler if it is determined that a valid conflict exists. 19.4 Trial stewards 19.4.1 The Affiliate shall appoint as many trial stewards as it considers necessary to facilitate conduct of the trial. Trial stewards shall: (a) bring each team to the search area precinct, and (b) carry out orders from the Judge (such as repositioning items in the search area), and any other duties as required by the Affiliate or the Judge, including acting as the Official Timer. 19.5 Timing 19.5.1 The Official Timer/Scribe, under the direction of the Judge: (a) shall record the search time of each team. This includes monitoring and recording the actual time (to one-hundredth of a second) it takes the team to complete the search (b) shall ensure that the team does not exceed the maximum allowable time for the search, and (c) may provide a 30 second warning to the handler. 19.5.2 The official time for each search shall start when any part of the dog or handler’s body crosses the start line or any part of the search area boundary. Failure of the dog to cross the defined start line will incur a Qualifying Fault. 19.5.3 The official time shall stop: (a) in Novice Classes when the handler calls “Alert” (b) in all other Classes when the handler calls “Finish”. 19.5.4 In Classes with multiple search areas, the official time for the first search area will be recorded on the score sheet while the team is led to the next search area, if applicable. The timer will then be reset, and timing will follow the same procedure for each additional search area. The official time for each search area will be recorded independently and then combined for a total time for that Element. 19.5.5 In the case of a timer malfunction on a qualifying search, the handler will have two (2) options: (a) the maximum search time is recorded as their official time for that Class/Element, or (b) the team re-runs the search at the end of the Class/Element. In that case, the first search outcome will be voided. The outcomes of the second search will be recorded as the search result. That is, if the handler chooses to re-run the search for time and fails to complete a qualifying performance on the re-run, the team will be awarded a Non-Qualifying Fault. The hide must be relocated and left to stand for at least ten (10) minutes prior to the re-run search. 19.5.6 Handlers may wear watches or other timing devices in the search area to be aware of the time remaining in their search. However, in no case may a handler use their own 26 timing device to dispute the conclusion of the Official Timer. The official time will be determined solely by the Official Timer’s device. 19.6 Handler looking for the hide A handler shall not actively look for the hide during the search. Any handler who, in the opinion of the Judge, actively looks for the hide shall incur a Non-Qualifying Fault. 19.7 Touching the dog A handler may touch their dog at any time during the search as encouragement or praise but not to guide or correct the dog. 19.8 Crossing search area boundaries Teams may cross search area boundaries without penalty during the search provided they continue working. 19.9 Disruption of the search area A handler may not touch objects in the search area without express permission from the Judge. Breach of this Rule shall result in a penalty as determined by the Judge. 19.10 Barking/vocalisation 19.10.1 Within reason as determined by the Judge, a dog may bark or vocalise while participating in a search without penalty. 19.10.2 If the Judge determines that the dog is barking out of frustration or is becoming overly disruptive in a way that threatens future use of the trial venue, the Judge shall give the handler a warning. If the handler is unable to stop the dog’s disruptive behaviour within ten (10) seconds after the warning, the dog shall be excused from the search and shall incur a Non-Qualifying Fault. 19.10.3 A dog which is excused from a search may, at the discretion of the Judge, still be permitted to participate in other Classes/Elements in which the dog is entered at the trial. 19.11 Alerts – accessible hides 19.11.1 The dog must demonstrate an alert behaviour to indicate location of the hide, but the nature of the alert behaviour is not prescribed. 19.11.2 The Judge may use their discretion to allow for environmental factors such as wind, sun, shade, rain and so on. As a guide, the Judge should allow for a parameter of up to 15 cm on any axis (vertical, horizontal or diagonal) in ideal conditions for all Classes for the handler to indicate a hide location. 19.11.3 The handler shall confirm the dog’s indication of the hide with the word “Alert”. If a verbal confirmation is not possible due to environmental factors or a handler’s ability, before commencing the search the handler may inform the Judge who may approve an alternative form of confirmation, such as an obvious hand signal. 27 19.11.4 When the handler calls “Alert”, the Judge shall confirm whether the alert is correct or incorrect. 19.11.5 If, in the opinion of the Judge, the dog is clearly indicating the hide, the Judge should respond “Correct” when the handler calls “Alert”. 19.11.6 If the dog is near the hide, but it is not clear to the Judge that the dog has communicated the exact location to the handler or the handler is unclear where the dog has indicated, the Judge should ask “Where?” The handler must then indicate the hide location by pointing or gesturing to an area within the prescribed size parameter. 19.11.7 Once the “Alert” call has been given, the handler must prevent the dog from continuing to work the hide and cannot ask the dog to re-indicate the hide. Doing so will incur a Non-Qualifying Fault. 19.11.8 If the handler gestures to an area that is larger than the prescribed size parameter, the Judge should ask the handler to indicate an area within those parameters. 19.11.9 If the hide is not in the area indicated by the handler, the alert should be considered “Incorrect”, and the team will incur a Non-Qualifying Fault. 19.11.10 For a hide that is out of reach due to a dog’s height, the area to which the handler gestures need not encompass the location of the hide, but it must be clear that the dog has identified the axis of the hide, whether vertical or diagonal, taking account of likely odour movement in the conditions. 19.11.11 If the handler calls ‘Alert’ on a previously located hide the Judge should respond ‘already found’. 19.12 Alert confirmation for inaccessible hides 19.12.1 For inaccessible hides, the dog will not be able to pinpoint the exact location of the hide but is expected to get as close as possible to the inaccessible hide location. 19.12.2 The area to which the handler gestures must encompass either the location of the hide, or the location that is the closest the dog can possibly get to the inaccessible hide location, having regard to odour movement. 19.13 “Finish” calls 19.13.1 The “Finish” call is used in Classes that contain multiple hides (Advanced, Excellent, Master and Ultimate) and is required to stop timing of the search. 19.13.2 The handler is required to call “Finish” when all hides have been located for the search area or, for Classes with an unknown number of hides, when the handler believes that all hides have been located or a “blank room’ cleared. 19.13.3 In the Advanced Class, if the handler fails to correctly call “Finish” within the maximum time allowed for the search or before leaving the search area precinct, the team will receive a Qualifying Fault and the maximum time allowed for that search. 19.13.4 In the Excellent Interior and the Master Classes, the number of hides in the search area 28 is unknown. The handler must call “Finish” within the search time (including each area in multiple area searches). Failure to do so will incur a Non-Qualifying Fault. 19.14 Incorrect Calls If the handler makes an incorrect “Alert” call, a Non-Qualifying Fault will be incurred. 19.15 Rewards and reinforcers 19.15.1 When a dog correctly finds the hide, the handler may reward the dog with a food or toy reward. Food or toy rewards may be used by the handler at any time during the search (for example, to calm and focus a nervous dog). These items may be used as a reward only. They may not be used to guide the dog toward a specific location to search or a penalty will be incurred. 19.15.2 A handler may reward at or away from the hide but must take care not to contaminate the search area with food particles or saliva. 19.15.3 If a toy is used, the toy must always stay in contact with the handler, that is, the toy cannot be thrown or dropped. Toys that make a noise shall not be used. 19.16 Contamination of the search area 19.16.1 Dropping food while rewarding a dog in the search area precinct is considered a contamination of the search area, regardless of whether the food is dropped on, near, or away from the hide. 19.16.2 Contamination of the search area is regarded as a Qualifying Fault or Non-Qualifying Fault, depending on the Judge’s assessment of the severity of the contamination. 19.17 Cleaning contamination in the search area 19.17.1 If a search area is contaminated, every effort must be made to return the area to its original condition before running the next dog. 19.17.2 If a dog eliminates in an indoor search area, all surfaces or objects in the affected area must be thoroughly cleaned with water. If a dog eliminates in an outdoor search area, any small objects such as rocks or sticks that are affected should be removed, and the ground should be sprayed with water. 19.17.3 At least one other place of similar size in the search area should also be sprayed or wiped with water using a fresh wipe. 19.17.4 This Rule also applies to the search area precinct which is under the Judge’s control for the purpose of the Class/Element being judged. 19.17.5 If an area or object is contaminated by food residue or saliva, the food residue should be removed and the area or object should be wiped down with water. Any container that is contaminated by significant food residue or saliva should be replaced. 29 PART 4 - JUDGES AND JUDGING 20 JUDGES 20.1.1 All Judges at any Scent Work trial must be approved by the relevant member body for judging the advertised Class. 20.1.2 The Judge may sign a Qualifying Certificate for each qualifying dog, denoting the relevant Division, Class and Element. Judging sheets must be given to the Trial Manager who is responsible for forwarding these documents and a marked catalogue to the Secretary of the relevant member body within seven (7) days of the trial. 21 JUDGING 21.1 Maximum hours judging A Judge may judge a maximum of: (a) eight (8) hours at a one-day trial (including set-up time) or (b) five (5) hours for an evening trial (including set-up time). 21.2 Time Allocation Maximum number of searches* to be judged should be guided by the number of searches in a Class(s) on the day. Judges may specify on their contracts how many entries they are willing to judge at the trial. Search times should be calculated based on the following estimated time allocation: Function Time allocated No of dogs Administration/Setup/Breaks 120 mins per day Novice 4 mins per entry 15 per hour Advanced 4 mins per entry 15 per hour Excellent (except Interior) 5 mins per entry 12 per hour Excellent Interior (2 search areas) 6 mins per entry 10 per hour Master (except Interior) 6 mins per entry 10 per hour Master Interior (2-3 search areas) 7 mins per entry 8 per hour Ultimate 10 mins per entry 6 per hour *Note that Excellent and Master Interior searches and the Ultimate Class refer to ‘searches’ not ‘search areas’. For example, while an Interior search may be across multiple areas, for the purposes of determining time it is considered one ‘search’. 21.3 Role and authorities of the Judge 21.3.1 The Judge shall: (a) have and maintain complete control and decision-making over matters in the search area and search area precinct (b) design each of the searches including search area design and selecting (or relocating) hide locations (c) set a time limit for the search as required under these Rules 30 (d) evaluate each team’s performance during the search (e) when the handler calls “Alert” or “Finish”, confirm whether the call is correct or incorrect. “Correct” or “Incorrect” calls must be given after every Finish call in multiple area searches (f) assess the team for any penalties and Rule infractions during the search and award penalties as required (g) assign a Qualifying or Non-Qualifying result for each search (h) act as hide steward if preferred. 21.3.2 Judges may modify specific requirements of these Rules or of a particular search so that handlers of differing abilities may compete, provided that such modifications do not aid the team’s performance. 21.3.3 If, in the opinion of the Judge, a dog’s performance was prejudiced by peculiar or extraordinary circumstances outside the handler’s control, the Judge has the discretion to determine whether all or the relevant component of the search may be re-run. 22 SCORING 22.1 Penalties 22.1.1 Penalties shall be applied for actions occurring while the dog is under the control of the Judge. Penalties include Qualifying Faults, Non-Qualifying Faults or Disqualification, according to the nature and type of action observed or experienced. 22.2 Qualifying Faults 22.2.1 Actions occurring during the search which will be assessed as Qualifying Faults, include: (a) handling error for example: dog not crossing the start line at the commencement of the search crowding the dog while it is searching dropping food in the search area and search area precinct toy thrown or dropped in the search area or search area precinct physical touch that provides guidance or direction to the dog lack of teamwork in the Advanced Class, the handler leaves the search area precinct without calling “Finish”. (b) minor safety concern that is, allowing the dog to be put in an unsafe situation for example, where the dog becomes frightened or defensive (c) mildly and accidentally compromising the search area for example: handler accidentally touches an object in the search area without the Judge’s permission untidy reward delivery 31 poor lead handling dog retrieving a hide or distraction. 22.2.2 Each Qualifying Fault can be applied multiple times in the same search, if warranted. Qualifying Faults affect placings only. There is no maximum number of Qualifying Faults per search. Any team that finds and calls all hides within the search time with no Non- Qualifying Faults will qualify. 22.2.3 Qualifying Faults will not be called out by the Judge during the search. If time permits, the Judge may briefly explain any assessed faults to the handler at the completion of the search. 22.3 Non-Qualifying Faults 22.3.1 The following actions are deemed to be Non-Qualifying Faults: (a) the maximum time for a search has been exceeded (b) the handler calls “Alert” on the incorrect location. While the dog should not qualify in this Element, the Judge may indicate where the nearest hide is, to allow the dog to find a hide and be rewarded (c) the handler calls “Finish” before all hides in the search area have been located (d) in the Excellent, Master and Ultimate Classes, where the number of hides is unknown, the handler does not call “Finish” before the expiration of the search time (e) the handler is not able to point to the location of the hide when asked by the Judge (f) the handler re-cues the dog to indicate a hide after the handler has called “Alert” including where the Judge has asked “Where” (g) the handler touches, moves or disrupts any object in the search area without express permission from the Judge and this has interfered with or contaminated or changed the search area such that it impacts unfairly on subsequent searches (h) when, in the opinion of the Judge, a handler actively looks for the hide (i) the dog is not under the handler’s control (j) the dog or handler stops working or performs disruptive behaviour for ten (10) or more seconds after warning from the Judge (k) the handler is unable to stop the dog’s barking/vocalising, after a warning from the Judge (l) taking the dog off-lead in an on-lead only search area or allowing the dog to be put in a potentially serious unsafe situation for example, where there is a potential for the dog to be injured (m) the Judge considers the dog is unfit to compete (n) the dog shows signs of or is exhibiting undue stress or fear 32 (o) physical touch that provides guidance or direction to the dog (p) any violation of the Rules relating to dog attire. 22.3.2 The Judge may determine that because of the Non-Qualifying Fault incurred (whether because of an action or a behaviour) the handler and dog should be excluded from further searching. The handler shall be excused from the search area. A handler who is excused from a search must vacate the search area precinct immediately. 22.3.3 A handler who is excused from a search may still be allowed to compete in other Classes or Elements in which they are entered at that trial. 22.3.4 However, at the discretion of the Judge, depending on the severity of the situation and taking into consideration the health and welfare of the dog (for example, illness or injury concerns), the Judge may excuse the dog from the remainder of the trial. It would not usually be considered a reportable offence. 22.4 Disqualification 22.4.1 A handler and dog shall be disqualified from the trial and/or the search and the Judging Chart must be marked ‘Disqualified (DQ)’ if, in the opinion of the Judge, one or more of the following actions occur. 22.4.2 From the search and/or the trial depending on the severity of the incident or whether the incident was considered deliberate or intentional or accidental: (a) the dog eliminates (urinates, defecates or vomits) in the search area or search area precinct (b) any harsh handling or correction of the dog by the handler for example, harsh verbal or physical reprimands, intimidating or abusive commands (c) the handler solicits assistance from a trial official, spectator or another handler (d) the handler discusses a search with any other person before the Class/Element has finished (e) the handler allows the dog to disrupt the search area unduly. This includes: excessive food contamination or saliva on a container, object or in the search area as determined by the Judge. Excessive saliva will only be penalized if the handler could reasonably have prevented the contamination but did not do so intentional biting, hard scratching, pouncing or other behaviour by the dog that causes damage to a container, object or the search area. Where a dog’s nose or paws get caught on containers or the dog paws at or gently picks up a container or other objects in the search area, this shall not be considered a disruption of the search area. 22.4.3 From the trial in the most serious of incidents and which shall be reported to the member body in accordance with the relevant Rules and Regulations: (a) any dog that attacks or displays aggressive behaviour towards any person or another dog, including while at the trial and during searches (b) the handler openly impugns the actions or decisions of the Judge (c) any handler who openly interferes willfully with another handler or a handler’s dog or 33 in the opinion of the Judge, the handler’s behavior is objectionable (d) the handler fails to declare that they are in possession of target odours while at the trial venue (e) the handler undertakes training utilizing the target odours at the trial venue or subset of the venue as specified in the Catalogue, other than in the designated warm-up area. 23 MARKS AND PLACINGS 23.1 When possible, the results for each Class/Element, including results and the Judge’s name will be displayed at the trial and be accessible to all handlers, but not before judging of the Class/Element is finished. 23.2 Placings shall be based on the fewest number of Qualifying Faults, and then on time. A team with no Qualifying Faults will place higher than a faster finishing team with Qualifying Faults. Only teams with qualifying results shall receive placings. 34 PART 5 - ODOUR SEARCH DIVISION SCENT WORK SEARCH REQUIREMENTS BY ELEMENT AND CLASS 24 CONTAINERS ELEMENT 24.1 Requirements 24.1.1 The Containers Element search requirements test a dog’s ability to locate the hide(s), concealed within one (1) or more containers within a search area, and communicate the find to their handler. 24.1.2 Container searches may be conducted either indoors or outdoors. 24.1.3 Containers shall be used to conceal the scent vessel or act as the scent vessel for Container searches. The scent vessel is to be adhered/secured in place within a container. Alternatively, the scent aid may be secured directly within a suitable container. 24.1.4 A container is any receptacle for holding the hide. To be suitable, a container must: (a) be used primarily for storage or transport of objects (b) be able to completely enclose the hide that is, it must have material on all sides that prevents the hide falling out (c) be durable enough that it cannot be readily torn or destroyed (nothing more fragile than a cardboard box) (d) be safe for the searching dog that is, glass, ceramics and china must never be used (e) allow target odour to be accessible to the searching dog. 24.1.5 Containers can include cardboard boxes, tins, briefcases, luggage, backpacks, storage bins, or any other similar odour-permeable container, acceptable to the Judge having regard to the Class. When cardboard boxes are used, the base of the boxes must have no opening or be taped shut. 24.1.6 It is the Judge’s responsibility to ensure that the choice of containers (texture, size, fabric, variety, robustness) and the arrangement used provide suitable variety and challenge for the searching team commensurate with the Class being judged. 24.1.7 Containers should be stable enough in position to not move around with minor disruption by the dog such that the dog is either faulted for disrupting the search area or the handler becomes disoriented with containers searched because they have moved out of relative position. If necessary, containers can be weighted for example, with bags of sand, water or a brick. 24.1.8 Containers should, where possible, be at least one (1) metre from any wall, boundary or other structural object. 24.1.9 Containers shall be at least thirty (30) cm apart, and if rows are used, each row shall be at least ninety (90) cm apart. 35 24.1.10 Containers in the Novice Class must be cardboard boxes or lidded plastic boxes with multiple holes drilled in the box. They must all be identical. They shall be at least 23 cm long by 19 cm wide. They must be no less than 6 cm and no more than 20 cm tall. 24.1.11 When using cardboard boxes in higher Classes, several different sized boxes may be used to increase the challenge and add variety. 24.1.12 Container(s) used for the hides in a search should not be re-used at the same or future trials. 24.1.13 Each hide may contain the same target odour or there may be a mix of the approved trial target odours. That is, one (1) hide may contain one target odour and another hide(s) may contain a different target odour(s). 24.1.14 Minimum distances between hides containing the same odour and hides containing a different odour do not apply in this Element. 24.1.15 In the Containers Advanced, Excellent and Master Classes, the distraction may be in a container or loose in the search area, except for food distractions which must be in a container. If the distraction is placed in a container, it should be a container like those being used in the search. It must not be placed in a container with a hide. 24.1.16 Distractions must be no closer than fifty (50) cm to a hide. 24.1.17 The minimum and maximum times for a Containers Element Search are specified, but the actual time limit for each Class shall be determined by the Judge. 24.2 Containers Novice Class 24.2.1 The search area shall be at least 25 and no more than 35 square metres. 24.2.2 No fewer than ten (10) and no more than fifteen (15) identical containers shall be laid out on the ground of the search area. The containers may be arranged in rows or in a “U” formation. 24.2.3 One (1) of the containers shall contain the hide. 24.2.4 There shall be no intentional distractions. 24.2.5 The dog shall locate the container with the hide and communicate the find to its handler within the time limit set by the Judge. The time limit for the search shall be between one (1) and two (2) minutes. 24.3 Containers Advanced Class 24.3.1 The search area shall be an area of at least 35 and no more than 55 square metres. 24.3.2 No fewer than fifteen (15) and no more than twenty (20) containers which may be identical or may vary in size and type shall be laid out on the ground of the search area. The containers may be arranged in rows, a “U” formation or in a circle. 36 24.3.3 Two (2) of the containers shall contain a hide each. 24.3.4 There shall be one (1) non-food distraction. 24.3.5 The dog shall locate the containers with the hides and communicate the find to its handler within the time limit set by the Judge. The time limit for the search shall be between two (2) and three (3) minutes. 24.4 Containers Excellent Class 24.4.1 The search area shall be an area of at least 55 and no more than 75 square metres. 24.4.2 No fewer than twenty (20) and no more than thirty (30) containers which may be identical or may vary in size and type shall be laid out on the ground of the search area. The containers may be arranged in rows, in a “U” formation, a circle, a pattern or random. 24.4.3 Three (3) of the containers shall contain a hide each. 24.4.4 There shall be two (2) distractions which may be non-food or food. 24.4.5 The dog shall locate the containers with the hides and communicate the finds to its handler within the time limit set by the Judge. The time limit for the search shall be between three (3) and four
