Latest technology for search dogs

Researchers from the Canine Detection Research Institute, Auburn University, USA, have invented a harness that uses Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to remotely guide search dogs in dangerous situations with an 80 percent success rate in trials. Earlier attempts at controlling search dogs involved electrodes implanted into the animal, but the advantage of the new harness is fitted externally and carries a GPS, a processor, spatial sensors and a radio modem. The dog feels vibrations on its left or right hand side and it can be “steered” through extremely tight gaps in buildings or other locations. Using this new technology, a single handler could steer a number of dogs at the same time, to cover large areas in disaster scenarios or airport security situations. It is believed to have high potential for use in drug and bomb detection missions.