Military Dogs
A detection dog known as a Sniffer Dog, is a dog that is trained to and works at using its senses (almost always the sense of smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, or blood. They are often known as sniffer dogs. Hunting dogs that search for game and search dogs that search for missing humans are generally not considered detection dogs. There is some overlap, as in the case of cadaver dogs, trained to detect human remains. In the state of California, dogs are trained to detect the Quagga Mussel on boats at public boat ramps, as it is a invasive species. Sniffer dogs have also been enlisted to find bumblebee nests. The Bumblebee Conservation Trust has trained a springer spaniel to detect the colonies, assisting them with the conservation of threatened species.
The new war against terrorism has certainly focused the world’s eyes on the courageous canines working in New York City and Washington, DC. But dogs all over the planet—of all cultures, creeds and breeds—are no less worthy of admiration for being the first and best line of defense against terrorist acts.
