Eligibility

This event is intended for conservation dog handlers and biologist who are planning to survey turtles in the next two years

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Requirements for two-legged participants

• Participants must have the recommendation of a conservation organization such as a

  • State wildlife agency

  • Land trust

  • Conservation Commission

  • Town planner or planning board

  • Wildlife Sanctuary with its own population of turtles

  • Nature center with its own population of turtles

  • Environmental consultancy 

  • University research lab

  • Citizen science program

• Participants must pass a background check

• We expect participants will have basic navigation skills with a map, compass, and / or electronic device  

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Requirements for four-legged participants

• Dogs must already be imprinted on an odor and able to comfortably search outside with distractions

• Dogs must currently be vaccinated for Rabies (titers accepted)

• Dogs must be able to work on a long-line or off leash

• Dogs must have a strong "leave it" or low prey drive

  • As we will be working with live animals, we reserve the right to dismiss dogs that we feel are unsafe.

  • We will work with handlers to introduce their dogs to the turtles, and expect that some dogs may need time to adjust to alerting without touching.

  • Dogs that continuously pick up, bite, or snap at a live animal and / or those whose arousal cannot be controlled may be dismissed. 

****Female dogs in heat WILL be allowed****

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