5-09/265.40 - Training Requirements for Department Canines and Handlers

Each canine handler, regardless of the bureau/unit to which they are assigned (i.e., Operation Safe Streets Bureau, patrol stations, Countywide Services Division, Transit Services Bureau, Custody Services Division, etc.), shall meet the necessary training and certification requirements for the type of detection canine, in accordance with the requirements of County Services Bureau, Narcotics Bureau, and Arson Explosives Detail, which can be found in each of their bureau/unit orders.

Bureaus/units that previously and/or recently acquired canines for use by Department personnel and are not included within one of the three bureaus listed above may have additional training and certification requirements, but this does not negate their obligation to meet the necessary training requirements listed at the beginning of this chapter.

Each Department canine handler will be required to participate in the Detection Canine Program’s training and certification, as indicated in the unit orders specific to each type of detection canine.

There are additional training components specific to the individual canine units which may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• “Pre-Service” training requirements for narcotics, firearms and arson-explosives searches.
• “In-Service” training.
• Individual team training.
• Unit level training.
• Other agency or vendor training.
• Procedures for obtaining training aids (i.e., narcotic substances, firearms, explosive materials, etc.).
• Procedures for assignment, maintenance, and security of various training aides.