Trail & Detect

11/02/2025

Couple of spaces left for mantrailing this Saturday

Phase Purple runs a range of classes for dogs and their handlers such as Agility, Hoopers, Scent work, Mantrailing. For more information visit our website or email [email protected]

06/01/2025

Back to making collars after months!
Website not open again yet but will be this week with a few changes.
This is a 38mm collar in dark olive with glow stripes and the amazing Austri Alpin NG Cobra buckle. It has a 3 way security system, cannot open under load and is incredibly lightweight and strong.
I'll be giving one of these away next week so keep an eye on Bionic Bert - collars and leads 😉

18/12/2024

***Edit*** the date was changed because of snow in November so I have some spaces left. Would anyone like to come that couldn't make November?

FREE mantrailing and tracking day, Sanquhar DG4. Come and try it out!

Sat 21st Dec 10-12 or 1-3pm

This free introductory mantrailing and tracking session will provide dog owners and enthusiasts a unique experience to explore the world of scent tracking with their dogs. Designed for beginners, this 2-hour course introduces participants to the basics of mantrailing—where dogs use their incredible sense of smell to follow a specific human scent trail. Unlike obedience training, mantrailing taps into a dog's natural instincts and encourages them to use their nose to locate a person or specific scent target. The course welcomes all types of dogs, from energetic working breeds to smaller companions, nervous dogs and reactive dogs creating an inclusive environment where every dog and handler team can learn. There is only ever one dog out at a time.

The course typically begins with a short introduction, covering essential concepts such as the science of scent, how dogs process smells, and what makes mantrailing and tracking different from traditional dog sports. I will explain key commands and provide an overview of the necessary equipment, such as harnesses and long leads, so that both dog and handler feel prepared. Participants may also be introduced to scent articles and how they are used to set up a "trail." Trainers often emphasize the importance of teamwork and reading your dog’s body language, as understanding subtle cues can greatly improve communication between the handler and the dog.

After the theoretical portion, participants move on to practical exercises, where each dog gets the opportunity to follow a scent trail in a safe, controlled environment. In these initial trails, trainers keep the distances short and straightforward, allowing dogs to build confidence and hone their focus. Handlers learn how to guide without directing, allowing the dog to take the lead in the tracking process. By the end of the 2-hour session, most dog-handler teams will have experienced a few short, successful trails, gaining a better understanding of how dogs perceive and follow scent trails.

This introductory course provides an excellent opportunity for handlers to bond with their dogs while discovering a new, engaging activity. By the end, participants will leave with a solid foundation to continue their mantrailing journey, whether just as a fun hobby or the beginning of a more advanced pursuit.
You won't need any special equipment.

Your dogs will LOVE this!

Please pm me to book on either the morning or afternoon session.

15/11/2024

Dog Sitting Services by The Canine Caretaker

The Canine Caretaker provides premium dog sitting services designed to meet every dog’s unique needs and keep them comfortable and happy in their own home while their owners are away. With a focus on creating a nurturing, stress-free experience for each pet, The Canine Caretaker is committed to providing a personal, attentive, and compassionate level of care that goes beyond basic feeding and walking. Each dog sitting session includes not only the essentials like feeding and exercise but also quality time spent engaging in play, positive reinforcement, and individualized activities that mimic a dog’s typical routine, reducing feelings of loneliness or stress during separation.

The Canine Caretaker is highly trained in dog behavior and health, ensuring they can handle various temperaments and special needs with professionalism and warmth. For older dogs or those requiring medications, the caretaker is equipped to administer treatments, manage dietary needs, and closely monitor each dog’s health to make sure everything is in top condition. For high-energy breeds, The Canine Caretaker offers active play sessions, scent training, and mental stimulation games to keep them physically and mentally engaged. In addition, the sitters follow a personalized checklist created with the dog owners to make sure every aspect of the dog's routine is maintained, offering both pets and owners peace of mind.

Safety and security are also top priorities. The Canine Caretaker uses secure protocols to enter and exit homes and conducts thorough pre-service meetings to get to know each pet’s personality and preferences, as well as any specific rules for the home environment. I also stay in close contact with pet owners, sending daily updates, photos, and even videos to ensure owners can relax, knowing their pet is in capable, caring hands. Whether it's a short weekend away or a longer vacation, The Canine Caretaker offers a reliable, tailored, and compassionate dog sitting solution for pet owners who want the best for their furry family members.

24/7 vet at the end of the phone too.

Please PM with any questions or enquiries.

21/10/2024

Atlanta

Calling All Scent Work Enthusiasts!
Looking to take your scent work to the next level? Whether you're a competitor, trying a new sport, or using nose work for your dog's well-being and resilience, this track is for you.
Brain Camp: SPORTY BRAINS! In-Person Seminar Registration (December 7 & 8, 2024 in Cu***ng, GA)

Join Dr. Kathy Murphy, Tracy Sklenar, Bobbie Bhambree, and Elliot Connor for a deep dive into the brain science behind training and sports dog performance. You'll gain insights to create the best learning environment for your dog, transitioning from theory to practical application over the weekend. We’ll teach you games and strategies to manage arousal, build focus, and enhance resilience.

Why Sign Up for the Scent Work Track?
Tailored Training: Exercises for all levels, from beginners to advanced handlers, to build confidence, accuracy, and teamwork.
Expert Insights: Elliot will guide you through challenges, helping you to apply your newfound Brain Camp knowledge to optimize your dog's scent detection skills and boost confidence.
Q&A Sessions: Get expert answers to your toughest questions and troubleshoot specific issues.
This track isn’t just practice—it’s about unlocking your dog’s scenting potential while strengthening your bond as a team, all while networking in a welcoming multi-sport environment.

Limited Spots Available—Don’t Miss Out!
Pricing: Working spot $495/team (limited); Auditing $125 for 2 days, $75 for 1 day
Sign up now to secure your spot and gain the skills, confidence, and tools to succeed in your next trial.
Brain Camp: SPORTY BRAINS! In-Person Seminar Registration (December 7 & 8, 2024 in Cu***ng, GA)

31/08/2024

Lynne and Nelci went to an NW2 with Journey and Lilu yesterday and both titled on their first go. Very special dogs and handlers.
Lilu has done her NW1 & NW2 in the same week!!!
See you all in purgatory (NW3) 😉

25/08/2024

Another 2 dogs titled their NW1 in New York today at 1st attempt. Congratulations Nelci, Lilu, Susan and Kiwi. Very proud of you all.
Special love to Lilu who got Pronounced in all 4 searches and came 3rd of 38 dogs 👌🏻

21/07/2024

Last day of Brain Camp in Chicago. Such an awesome set of dogs 😁

19/06/2024

Great day 1 of 5 😁
What was really nice is that there was no conflict of ideas.
Simon Gadbois , Kathy Connor , Wesley Visscher and myself all have the same ethos where it comes to training dogs in detection and tracking. Thanks to everyone that made the journey and for the ones that are staying all week, see you tomorrow...

03/06/2024

*****EDIT*****
Change of plan due to technical difficulties. This will now be held on zoom. Use the link below at 8pm UK time.
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86872717590

Join Dr Simon Gadbois, Dr Kathy Murphy and Wesley Visscher chatting about upcoming Conservation Cognition seminar on June 19th in SW Scotland.
Meet the speakers and hear what they will be talking about.

28/05/2024

There are still a few spots left for this seminar!
Come for the day to listen to world renowned scientists and operational handlers regarding olfaction and conservation.

Dr Simon Gadbois PhD from Dalhousie University, Canada.
Talk subject:

'Is my dog liberal or conservative? (and why it matters)
An exploration of processes (cognitive, motivational, and neuronal) in scent processing dogs.'

Dr. Kathy Murphy PhD from Barking Brains and CEO of Behavior Vets.
Talk subject:

'The role of attentional load in the training and operation of conservation canines'

Wesley Visscher from Scent Imprint for dogs and Scent Imprint Conservation dogs. Operational handler in detection, tracking and conservation worldwide.
Talk subject:

'Operational conservation detection & tracking'

This seminar is for anyone interested in cognition, conservation, detection and tracking/mantrailing...

https://www.bionicbert.co.uk/events-1

15/05/2024

Please get in touch if you'd like to do some virtual training with me

Some of the benefits of virtual training include:

- Training in a calm and safe virtual environment can teach essential skills before exposing the dog to triggering situations, resulting in more efficient and cost-effective training.

- Virtual training is often more affordable and offers flexible scheduling, eliminating weather-related cancellations.

- It helps prevent the "trainer effect" where dogs only perform well in the trainer's presence, fostering a stronger partnership between you and your dog.

- Immediate intervention with virtual training can prevent undesirable behaviors from becoming deeply ingrained by offering immediate techniques and solutions.

- Virtual training empowers you to actively participate in the training process, equipping you with the skills needed to handle your dog independently.

- It allows trainers to implement a customized training plan without introducing the stress of a new person into the dog's environment.

12/05/2024

So proud of Journey and Lynne Schroeder titling at their first ever trial including pronounced in 3 searches.
As they're in the States this has all been virtual teaching. This little dog is so good at finding

25/04/2024

Scan the QR...