Anyone who takes part in an actual search must have a valid first aid card, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and training in blood borne pathogens, as well as basic and intermediate helicopter training. You should have specialized training in hypothermia and the action to be taken to protect oneself and to treat a victim. ABOVE ALL you should dress appropriately for the search conditions. Good footgear is vital. Do not end up limping down the trail with blisters.
You will be expected to learn to use, and carry a compass as well as a whistle for signaling. You must know the uniform map system and have a basic pack and equipment. Handlers must be prepared to spend the night in the field in relative comfort using the food and equipment in your pack.
Handlers with the best trailing bloodhound in the world can still become a victim. A fall or even a sudden change in weather may mean a night in the wilderness. You must be prepared for the worst.
When filling out the search reports, document everything good and bad, we can all benefit from mistakes. Document the mistakes made, such as believing the reports of others instead of trusting your hound. Thinking that experienced teams are perfect, can discourage the novice handler from sticking with it. One of the most important things to remember is to trust your hound.
There are several books on the market that may assist you in training your bloodhound as well as provide hours of interesting reading. These books include THE COMPLETE BLOODHOUND by Catherine Brey and Lena Reed, MANHUNTERS! HOUNDS OF THE BIG T by William Tolhurst as told to Lena Reed, SEARCH DOG TRAINING by Sandy Bryson and MEET MR. GRIZZLY by Montague Stevens