While working a case in
Indiana, it was necessary to visit a shelter to do a shelter check for the missing dog. As I was checking
the kennels, I came across a vivacious young dog, barking and going through as many tricks as he knew to get my attention.
The young boxer cross had been surrendered by his owner because he was moving and he was not happy about being kept in
the cold, cement runs.
I passed by him and he barked in frustration urging me to
come back. I walked back and decided to test him right on the spot. With dogs barking, people walking
through our test area as well as the entire humane staff and officers gathered to watch us, we tested the anxious dog.
Not the ideal situation as with all the distractions his odds of passing the test were not very good. But... of
course he passed with flying colors, finding the scent and subject in lightning fast speed... after being introduced
to the tracking game only once.
Mason has proved to be an outstanding student.
His ability to watch and learn from the other dogs has accelerated his training. After only three months of training,
he was able to travel across the country with us and work back up for Cade. Like the big lead dog, Mason reasons and makes decisions
as to recent scent and the subject's latest direction of travel; a crucial element in our work.
On the road and in the house, Mason looks to the veteran dog team members for his lead. He has already prove
himself a valuable member of the team.
