Finding Your Support System: Navigating the HRD Handler Training Journey

Life is busy, and as much as you love it, working with a human remains detection (HRD) dog isn't your full-time job. This passion often leaves you feeling pulled in multiple directions, battling the constant guilt of "never doing enough" or not being able to train as much as you'd like.

The Challenge of Training

Training your HRD dog comes with its own set of challenges. What type of training is best? Who is the best instructor? Which training program should you choose? These questions weigh heavily on your mind because training often involves significant financial investment. As a volunteer, you're already dedicating your own time and money to the basics, but it never seems like enough.

You know there's more information out there, more nuances to learn about the fascinating world of HRD. You are eager to serve your community as a skilled HRD Handler, but the sheer volume of information is overwhelming. How do you know what's right for you?

Seeking Excellence

You have a few fellow HRD Handlers nearby, and their training sessions seem adequate. The dogs can perform the basic tasks required for the certification test you’re planning to take. But you want more. You want to learn more, grow more, and become an excellent resource.

Should you have a training plan? You know you should keep track of your training events, but you're unsure of what exactly to track. Without a plan for the week, the month, or the operational training period, you feel like you’re drifting. What kind of things should be included in a training plan? It might be enough to follow the traditional methods, but you have this nagging feeling that there’s more. Your neighbor's agility dog has a training plan, so why doesn't your HRD dog? You want more, and you're right to want it.

Finding Support and Structure with Dog Merickel

At Dog Merickel, we believe there is more to your journey, and a training plan does matter. Yes, you should have one. We understand that becoming an HRD handler can sometimes be a lonely road. That's why we emphasize camaraderie, collaboration, and thoughtful discussions that might raise more questions than answers. But through these discussions, you'll find a home for your growth as you journey with your detection colleague—your dog.

Many roads lead to Rome, and the path to becoming an excellent HRD Handler may seem confusing. But confusion is no excuse not to plan a route. You want to create a map for your journey, and that's where we come in. At Dog Merickel, we can help you. We offer guidance, tools, and discussions to help you navigate your training journey, no matter how busy life gets.

A Shelter from the Storm

The training journey for an HRD Handler can be tough, but at Dog Merickel, we provide a shelter from the storm of confusing information. Our training plan guidance, tools, and discussions are all available online, designed to supplement your pursuit of training excellence.

Remember, regardless of how busy you are, there is always a way to learn and improve as long as you feel supported. Let us be that support, helping you and your HRD dog reach new heights together.