PARTICIPATION OF CYNOLOGY TEAMS IN DISASTER SEARCHES IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC IN 2006–2017

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the use of rescue dogs in disaster
searches the Czech Republic. In Introduction, Czech rescue cynology as well as an overview of
Czech literature on the topic are briefly introduced. The research part assesses all (104)
disaster searches with participation of cynological teams in debris in the Czech Republic in the
period 2006-2017. The data are processed using a mixed research design. Tne most important
results: no living person was found, dogs reliably mark the victims' bodies, even if only live
people are searching in the trainings. No handler was injured. Two dogs were slightly injured.
Conclusions formulat in which areas for further research are outlined and recommendations on
methodological measures given that would lead to an increase of efficiency.