S12 Group calls for responses to security dog handler-focused survey

To date, the findings unearthed by the survey include the following:

*79% of respondents consider dog welfare, transport and kennelling to be ‘very significant’ problem areas

*75% have outlined similar concerns when it comes to pay and employment conditions

*61% of respondents identify Health and Safety assessments as being a ‘very significant’ problem

In addition, 50% of respondents have said they had previously felt reluctant to raise concerns about welfare, safety or professional standards. The most common reasons respondents have given for this focus on the belief that reporting concerns would not lead to any action and also fears about losing work or income.

Glen Tonkyn, joint lead for the S12 Security Guarding Leadership Group’s Canine Specialist Workstream, commented: “Dog handlers sit at the heart of the security canine sector and are uniquely positioned to provide insights across multiple areas, including training, operational practice, welfare and pay.”

Tonkyn continued: “The findings of the survey responses that we’ve received to date show precisely why security and patrol dog handlers need a safe and credible way in which to share their experiences. The evidence they provide will help us to identify practical priorities for the Canine Specialist Workstream as we look towards raising standards and improving professionalism in the sector.”

Accurate picture

The S12 Security Guarding Leadership Group wants to hear directly from dog handlers in order to build an accurate picture of working practices across the sector. Their experiences will assist in identifying common themes, informing future industry discussions and supporting practical improvements when it comes to standards and professionalism.

Responses are completely anonymous and the published findings will not identify any individual, company, or organisation.

Interested parties are invited to complete the survey online before the closing date of 16 October

The S12 Security Guarding Leadership Group launched its Canine Specialist Workstream back in July in a bid to strengthen the security dog sector, improve professional standards and canine welfare, represent industry interests and support meaningful reform.

Importantly, the survey findings will help to shape the Canine Specialist Workstream’s priorities and provide an evidence base for wider sector discussions.

Specifically, responses are being welcomed from general purpose security dog handlers, patrol dog handlers, advanced general purpose security dog handlers, former dog handlers working in the security guarding sector and those individuals in directly comparable security patrol-centred roles.

*Further information is available online at www.securityleaders.co.uk