What do you need for mantrailing?
You'll need to be prepared to join in and take part!
During a trailing session, we all play a role, from 'finder' to 'runner'. You'll also need to be able to leave your dog safely in your car (we'll never leave dogs unattended so don't worry about that).
Other than that you'll need very little, but read on for guidance.
The harness
Ideally, you will use a suitable harness for your dog — most everyday harnesses are fine. It's important that your dog is comfortable wearing it and ideally not a 'pulling' harness (designed for canicross etc). A fixing point just behind the dog's shoulders is perfect.
Ask if you need advice or don't have a harness but still want to try.
The long line
When trailing, the search team are connected to their dog by a fixed long line around 7-10m long.
This allows the handler to receive information from the dog and importantly, the dog gains reassurance that the handler is following.
You are welcome to borrow a line if you don't have one and please ask for advice as not all lines are suitable for trailing.
Finder's reward
Our dogs work hard to find the lost person or dog when trailing. They are rewarded with a 'finder's reward' that is a super-high value reward (usually food) — some lovely wet type food (dry and standard rewards are not suitable) — often the smellier the better!
How much food is used for each reward?
This depends on the dog, but make it worth it! Remove some food from their daily allowance to avoid adding too many calories.
Reward pots
What makes a suitable container for a mantrailing finder's reward?
The most commonly used are small, leak-proof food containers — a variety are available and something pocket-sized is perfect. You can even use recycled pots, although sometimes these can be tricky to open when you've been found!