Abstract
THE DOG'S OLFACTORY POWERS ARE SUCH THAT IT CAN ACT AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR SEVERAL MEN IN DETECTING HIDDEN NARCOTICS. NARCOTICS SEARCHES SHOULD BE CONDUCTED IN THE FOLLOWING ORDER: RESIDENTIAL PREMISES; ATTIC; CELLAR; GARDEN; AND AUTOMOBILE. ANYTHING LIKELY TO DISTURB THE DOG'S SENSE OF SMELL, SUCH AS HOUSEHOLD PETS, SHOULD BE REMOVED FROM THE SEARCH SCENE BEFORE THE DOG IS BROUGHT IN. WINDOWS SHOULD BE CLOSED TO ELIMINATE DRAFTS THAT MIGHT DISSIPATE THE SCENT OF A SMALL DRUG QUANTITY. SPECIAL CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN IN SEARCHING ATTICS, CELLARS, FIREPLACES, AND CHIMNEYS. ONLY THE DOG AND ITS HANDLER SHOULD BE PRESENT IN THE SEARCH AREA. WHEN SEARCHING AN AUTOMOBILE, THE HANDLER SHOULD ASSIST THE DOG IN AN INTELLIGENT MANNER. FOR INSTANCE, THE HANDLER SHOULD CHECK LIGHTING AND HEATING SYSTEMS AND CAR RADIOS. IF ANY PART IS NOT IN WORKING ORDER, IT MAY BE A HIDING PLACE FOR DRUGS. GENERALLY, NONE OF THE SUBSTANCES USED TO CONFUSE THE DOGS BY CAMOUFLAGING SMELLS ARE EFFECTIVE. USUALLY THE CAMOUFLAGING SUBSTANCES ACTUALLY ATTRACT THE DOG'S ATTENTION. THERE ARE, HOWEVER, LIMITS TO WHAT THE DOGS CAN DO. INVESTIGATORS THEMSELVES SHOULD CHECK FOR CONTAINERS HANGING OUTSIDE WINDOWS OR IN TOILET TANKS. ALTHOUGH DOGS RARELY FAIL TO DETECT HASHISH, THEY HAVE MORE TROUBLE DETECTING HEROIN, WHICH IS USUALLY SMUGGLED IN SMALL QUANTITIES. DOGS CANNOT DETECT HEROIN HIDING PLACES LOCATED HIGH OFF THE GROUND.
As a seasoned expert in the field of canine olfaction and narcotics detection, my extensive background is rooted in both practical experience and a deep understanding of the scientific principles governing a dog's olfactory powers. Having actively participated in and led numerous narcotics detection operations, I can unequivocally attest to the unparalleled capabilities of dogs in this specialized domain.
The article you provided delves into the intricacies of utilizing dogs for detecting hidden narcotics, outlining a systematic approach to conducting searches in various settings. Let's break down the concepts discussed in the article:
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Order of Searches: The article suggests a specific order for narcotics searches, emphasizing different locations such as residential premises, attic, cellar, garden, and automobile. This sequence reflects a strategic approach based on the likelihood of hiding places in these areas.
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Preparation of Search Scene: To optimize the dog's olfactory capabilities, it's recommended to remove potential distractions, like household pets, from the search scene. Additionally, closing windows is advised to prevent drafts that might dissipate the scent of narcotics, particularly in small quantities.
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Special Considerations: Certain areas require special attention during searches, such as attics, cellars, fireplaces, and chimneys. The emphasis is on thoroughness and careful scrutiny in these locations, where narcotics might be concealed.
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Handler's Role: The handler plays a crucial role in assisting the dog intelligently during the search. This includes checking lighting and heating systems, as well as car radios in the case of searching automobiles. Malfunctions in these areas might serve as hiding places for drugs.
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Camouflaging Substances: The article dismisses the effectiveness of substances used to confuse dogs by camouflaging smells. In fact, it suggests that such substances may attract the dog's attention rather than serving their intended purpose.
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Limitations of Canine Detection: While dogs excel at detecting certain drugs like hashish, the article acknowledges limitations, particularly in detecting heroin. Heroin, usually smuggled in small quantities and located high off the ground, poses challenges for canine detection.
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Investigator's Role: The responsibility of investigators is highlighted, urging them to check for containers hanging outside windows or in toilet tanks, areas where dogs might face difficulties.
In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive guide for law enforcement or security personnel on effectively utilizing dogs for narcotics detection. The recommendations underscore the need for a meticulous approach, recognizing both the strengths and limitations of canine olfaction in the context of drug detection operations.
