Cadaver Search
Cadaver Search is a sensitive search-dog discipline where dogs locate deceased individuals in hard-to-reach areas—forests, riverbanks or rubble—and alert handlers to the exact location.
Overview
Cadaver-search dogs are deployed when a missing person shows no signs of life for an extended period. Off-leash, they follow residual odor particles, ignoring distracting scents, and can detect minute odor sources.
Organization & Training
Certification is provided by DRK, ASB, JUH, Malteser Hilfsdienst and BRH under federal exam regulations. Training covers cadaver-odor discrimination, precise indication and psychological support for handlers dealing with trauma scenarios.
Alerting
Police or EMS dispatch centers, often in coordination with forensic authorities, alert cadaver-search units. Searches ideally commence within 24 hours of reporting to preserve forensic evidence.
Search Methods
Searches proceed in predefined grid cells. Dogs systematically traverse these zones, alternating between ground and aerial scent detection, pausing upon indication to signal the handler.
Indication Types
- Pointing: Dog freezes at the scent source.
- Retrieve: Dog brings a carried object to the handler.
- Barking: Loud vocalization to mark the location.
- Body language: Subtle sit or intense stare at the find.
Equipment
- Cadaver odor carrier (prepared fabric) for training.
- Flexible harness and leash.
- Gloves and protective gown for biohazard safety.
- GPS device for logging and reporting.
- Emergency medical kit for team safety.
- Headset or radio for discreet coordination.
Exams & Certification
Exams include cadaver-search trials in forest and rubble terrains, precision indication assessments and a written section on legal aspects. Recertification every two years ensures sustained proficiency.
Statistics
In 2023, the BRH Federal Association recorded around 70 cadaver-search missions, with dogs indicating correctly in 85% of cases, enabling legally valid recoveries.