BLOOD TRACKING

It is only recently that it has been possible to do a Schweisshund test here in the UK that is recognised by the UK Kennel Club.  Ch Brequest Baille Basler was the first Basset Fauve (and 12th dog overall) to gain his aptitude test run by the Bavarian Mountain Hound Club. The later tests require some off lead work and we have yet to brave that test as Fauves can be stubborn and a 10 minute down stay while I go out of sight may just be too much! For further information on the blood tests please visit The Bavarian Mountain Hound Society.

SEARCH AND RESCUE

Debby Heller lives in California (www.countryroadfauves.com), and uses her Fauves for Search and Rescue. The requirements for a trailing dog are performed under the assessment of selected observers. The dogs must be able to follow trails that are 12, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours old.

In addition to this the dog must work 2 night trails that are at least 0.5 miles long, 4 hours old and take a minimum of 20 minutes to complete. These are done in the forest with no lights bar a headlamp worn by the handler. Other requirements include the dog loading, riding and unloading from a helicopter. The dog must also spend a night alone with the handler in the wilderness with only minimum supplies carried in the handler's backpack. It must be able to ride in the back of a truck with 5 other dogs with no problems. Added to all this are swimming, agility and obedience tasks!

The terrain around California includes mountains, forest and high mountain meadows. Debby says that the smallness of the Fauve, rather than being a difficulty can be a help as sometimes you must carry an injured or exhausted dog during a search.