Julianne’s Journey into Search and Rescue

It’s early morning in the forest. The air is crisp and still. The quietness is broken by the soft crunch of leaves beneath Juliane’s boots. She moves quietly through the trees, her eyes scanning the terrain, while Ollie, her dog, works a scent trail ahead. They are not on a standard walk today. This is a life-saving training exercise.

Julianne, 30, is a volunteer in training with Norske Redningshunder (NRH), the Norwegian Rescue Dogs. Alongside her miniature American shepherd, Ollie, she’s working toward becoming an official rescue dog team.

The NRH is a volunteer organization that trains dogs and their handlers to assist in real search and rescue operations across Norway, responding to around 500 life-saving missions each year. These missions cover a range of scenarios, including missing persons in forests, mountains, avalanches, and disaster zones.

Every training session Julianne does is preparation for the moment when someone’s life may depend on her and Ollie.

Julianne’s journey into the world of rescue dog training began in 2021, when she first got Ollie. From the start, they attended various dog training courses. However, it wasn't until the summer of 2023 that they discovered NRH. With Ollie’s social and curious nature, Julianne saw the opportunity to train for search and rescue work. We sat down with Julianne to hear more about her experience and why having the right tools like our new emergency Dog rescue sling is essential.

"NRH gives me the opportunity to use dogs’ natural instincts in a way that can truly help people in need."

Julianne, can you tell us how you got started with search and rescue?

"I’ve always had a strong desire to help others," Julianne explains. "Growing up, I spent a lot of time outdoors, which gave me a strong understanding of the terrain. But my inspiration to join NRH really came from wanting to make a meaningful impact in society. I’ve always had a deep connection with dogs, and I wanted to combine my love for them with the opportunity to contribute to rescue work. NRH gives me the opportunity to use dogs’ natural instincts in a way that can truly help people in need."

Becoming a certified rescue dog handler, however, is no small feat. It requires years of training and a bond built on trust between the handler and the dog. The process includes multiple modules, each focusing on different skills and techniques like obedience and rescue methods.

Can you tell us more about the training you’re doing?

"The training is broken down into four main modules," Julianne explains. "Module one is all about understanding the handler’s role, the structure of NRH, and the basics of training. In Module two, we focus on obedience, first aid, and teaching the dog how to signal when they’ve found something. Module three is where we practice search techniques, including tracking and circling. At the end of the third module, there is an exam. Then module four is a week-long test that evaluates everything we’ve learned. After we have successfully completed this, we become a certified search and rescue team."

When training or everyday hiking, Julianne makes sure to pack essential gear for both herself and Ollie.

What items and gear do you take with you when training, or even just during long hikes?

"I always take basic first aid supplies, water, and some snacks for Ollie," she explains. "I also carry extra layers of clothing, especially when we're training in more challenging terrains. The Dog rescue sling which was developed in collaboration with Non-stop dogwear and the NRH is another important piece of gear. It ensures that if Ollie were to get injured or exhausted, I could safely carry him and keep him comfortable until we can get to safety."

Dogs need to master specific skills, allowing them to work in various environments under pressure while cooperating seamlessly with their handlers. For Julianne and Ollie, this means regularly practicing their skills in different terrains, ensuring Ollie is always prepared for any challenge.

"We’re constantly building on our skills to make sure Ollie is ready for the unpredictable nature of real rescue operations."

What skills does a rescue dog need to master, and how are you working on these skills with Ollie?

"A rescue dog needs to be adaptable," says Julianne. "They have to be able to search in all types of terrain, stay calm under pressure, and work closely with the handler. For Ollie and me, this means we practice regularly in a variety of environments and focus heavily on obedience and different search techniques. We’re constantly building on our skills to make sure Ollie is ready for the unpredictable nature of real rescue operations."

What advice would you give to someone considering training a dog for search and rescue?

• Ensure your dog is suitable: Any legal dog breed can be a rescue dog, but some breeds have better instincts for search and rescue than others. Consider the dog’s personality, energy level, and curiosity.
• Start early: Begin training as early as possible. Basic obedience and socialization are essential before moving on to specific search and rescue exercises.
• Be patient: Search and rescue training takes time. Be prepared to face challenges and be patient with your dog. Positive reinforcement is key.
• Attend classes and workshops: Enrol in classes or workshops to learn from experienced instructors. This not only gives you valuable skills, but also the opportunity to meet and connect with others with similar interests.
• Train in varied terrain: Expose your dog to different environments and conditions to ensure they’re prepared for any situation. This will help the dog adapt to different situations during rescue operations.
• Build a strong bond: A strong relationship and bond between you and your dog is essential. Spend time together, play and have fun!

What does it mean to you to be part of an organization like NRH that plays such a critical role in rescue operations?

"Being part of NRH is incredibly meaningful," Julianne reflects. "It gives me a sense of purpose and a deep connection with others who share the same mission. The organization plays a critical role in rescue operations, and I feel privileged to be part of something so important. It also helps me understand the immense responsibility that comes with being a certified rescue dog handler."

As Julianne and Ollie near the end of their training session, a quiet sense of accomplishment settles in. The morning’s exercise, where Ollie successfully tracked a scent through dense underbrush and located the "missing person," has come to a close. Julianne rewards Ollie for his efforts, and his tail wags in response, an unspoken acknowledgment of their teamwork and his enjoyment of his work as a rescue dog.

This training session has been another important step forward. They’ve worked together, refining their skills and strengthening the bond that will be crucial in real-life situations. Each training session brings them closer to being prepared when the moment comes to respond to a real mission where lives are on the line.

To learn more about Norske Redningshunder (NRH) and their mission, visit their website for information on training programs, events, and how you can get involved, www.nrh.no.