DNA K9

16/08/2024

Othram Inc. solves another cold case using forensic geneology. This time identifying “Angel Baby Doe”, who was left to die on the side of a road in Texas some 23 years ago.

The baby, dubbed “Angel Baby Doe,” was found on the side of a road in November 2001 south of Fort Worth, Texas, by a man collecting cans.

10/08/2024

🎨🐾 **Discover the Art of Ivy Fox Illustration!** 🐾🎨

Meet Ivy Fox, an exceptionally talented artist specializing in breathtaking watercolor paintings that capture the distinct beauty of every dog she portrays. Whether you’re the proud owner of a pedigreed champion or want to honor your cherished mixed-breed rescue, Ivy’s talent for showcasing the unique spirit of each breed and the personality of your beloved “heart dog”, is truly one-of-a-kind.

In addition to her popular paintings, Ivy Fox offers detailed prints on functional items such as tote bags, clothing, and decorative flags—perfect for carrying your dog’s gear or celebrating your favorite breed. Her smaller items, featuring her signature artwork, make ideal gifts that can be purchased to enhance prize baskets, awards, or stand out at your organization’s next fundraising event. Ivy’s artwork is well-suited for initiatives focused on preserving purebred dogs, promoting participation in canine sporting events, or supporting dog rescue, creating memorable experiences through the art and love of dogs.

Support the art and the love of dogs by visiting Ivy Fox Illustration today. 🐕🎨

👉 https://www.ivyfoxillustration.com/gallery 👈

06/08/2024

We know the first day of school is exciting, but let's be safe! Don't put your kid's picture out there with all of his personal information on the web. No last name. No school name. Credit for photo to Marcie Ridgway

31/07/2024

Exciting progress from Peace River K9 Search and Rescue Association Inc. and Splash, the HRD otter!

30/07/2024

🇺🇸

Don't miss out! Our Christmas in July sale ends soon. Get 25% off dog sport tees and decals at ShopCanineAesthete.com 🎄🐾

27/07/2024

Thank you Freedom Protective Gear for crafting this custom hybrid pistol holster for us, and also for this very “tacticool” f***y pack!

Go check out Freedom Protective Gear!

Website 🌐
https://www.freedomprotectivegear.com

Instagram 📷

27/07/2024

Be careful who you talk to on the internet, and remember to supervise your child’s online activities.

Social media influencer Kat Torres has been sentenced to eight years in prison for human trafficking and keeping s*x slaves. Torres apparently lured women on...

26/07/2024

We are happy to share feedback and photos from Nathan and Stephanie Justice of K9 Search & Rescue Services of West Virginia Inc. about our Getxent HRD Odor training aids.

“Charlee received some new training aids in the mail thanks to DNA K9. Thanks Alex and Roy Pescador, Charlee had fun working this. We look forward to working it more intensive this weekend.”

Visit www.dnak9.com to view our HRD Odor training aids.

20/07/2024

What’s your idea of training dogs?

The video shared by Worthless Handler shows foundational training of a necessary life skill to these working dogs.

16/07/2024

We are passionate about Getxent tubes for HRD K9 training due to the numerous benefits they offer, particularly in addressing the unique challenges of this discipline. They are 100% biosafe, non-hazardous, and disposable, making training set-up, clean-up, and transport more efficient and convenient.

How can something so inconspicuous possibly deliver real target odor comparable to traditional training aids?

Find out for yourself when you open the bag! These little tubes pack a powerful punch of odor.

14/07/2024

The Schiff’s reagent soil test is one of many presumptive field techniques that can complement Forensic K9 investigations. This technique is taught to the Forensic Applied Sciences and Technology (F.A.S.T.) Division of the Peace River K9 Search and Rescue Association Inc., and shared here by DNA K9.

The Schiff’s reagent test can reveal the presence of aldehydes in soil, which is a product of tissue decomposition. Although it is not a human-specific test, it is a practical and easily applied field technique that can support and inform forensic searches for human remains.

10/07/2024

We are thrilled to support Peace River K9 Search and Rescue Association Inc. by providing them with our Getxent HRD Odor tubes to help train “Splash”, the North American River Otter.

Did you know otters can smell under water?

Splash is being trained to assist searchers in locating and recovering missing people from bodies of water, and will be especially helpful in low-visibility settings.

26/06/2024

This Catahoula's "cracked glass eyes" are common in Catahoulas. We don't know the source, but it's been said these eyes allow a dog to see Heaven and Earth simultaneously…

From Jenny James' piece, "The Dog Tribe:"

"The dog is an important animal in shamanism that acts as a guide, guardian and companion to the spirit world. Literally, the sacred animal spirit, like the shaman, is a psychopomp; that is, a conductor of the soul to the place of the dead. The anim'al becomes the shaman's other soul, double and alter ego. For the Jungian depth psychologist Eric Neumann, the principle animal of the Great Mother archetype is the dog, "the howler by night, the finder of tracks ... the companion of the dead."

Read more of James' piece at: Southern Anthropologist: Vol. 32: No. 1, Article 3.
Available at: https://egrove.olemiss.edu/southern_anthropologist/vol32/iss1/3

Photo of “Aurum” by Alex Pescador/DNA K9

20/06/2024

Dear SAR K9 handler,

We need to talk.

Sincerely,

Your Teammates

20/06/2024

PRSAR has been honored to be a presenter at the Mounted Police Olympics this December in Ocala at the World Equestrian Center. We will be presenting The Art and Science of Equine Scent Work. https://www.mountedpoliceolympics.com/the-art-science-of-equine-scenting/

15/06/2024

Support a great team!

❤️ Help support our organization by purchasing our new "Love Nose" shirt design on these amazing colors by Bespoke Designs in Spencer, West Virginia.
This fundraiser will run now until June 30th. Shirts will be printed, mailed out or delivered at that time. Shirts are $25 a piece which includes shipping anywhere in the United States. We are a 501c3 nonprofit and our organization is run solely on donations, grants and our volunteers own money. The services we provide to help locate lost and missing persons is always FREE and we are available 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Just message or comment to place an order.
Sizes available: Youth xs-xl and Adult s-5x.
Colors available: Red, Carolina Blue, Daisy, Heliconia and Military Green. We accept cash, check, PayPal, Venmo, Cash App @gmail.com Please specify size and color when ordering.
Larger images of the shirts in the comments.
Thank you for your continued support of our mission. ❤️

13/06/2024

Diet and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)

This information is especially relevant given the genetic predispositions of certain breeds to primary DCM, which can sometimes lead to the dismissal of secondary, diet-related forms of the condition.

For further details, please refer to the following study: [Nature Scientific Reports](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-94464-2).

Many studies that discredit concerns about dietary DCM typically have significant conflicts of interests and lack consideration of the extremely relevant role of L-carnitine and B-vitamins in DCM prevention, development, or treatment, with an emphasis placed instead on taurine or overall macronutrient content comparisons between DCM-associated grain-free pet foods and conventional commercial kibbles. The heat treatment and processing of commercial kibble can also destroy sensitive nutrients like B-vitamins that may be added beforehand, among others important nutrient co-factors.

Although nutrient deficiencies are more obviously suggested when dietary nutrients are lower, such as the B vitamins noted above, deficiencies also can be created indirectly by excess or unbalanced food components that interfere with the normal absorption of a nutrient in the gastrointestinal tract. For example, dietary fiber could alter the digestibility and bioavailability of essential nutrients that appear to be adequately supplied in the diet, contributing to a deficiency. Even if L-carnitine, taurine, or B-vitamins are added later in the manufacturing process, the amino acid content, amino acid-derived compounds, and xenobiotics/plant compounds, the largest categories of biochemicals that were higher in grain-free foods associated with DCM, have been linked to DCM in humans and dogs by their ability to alter or inhibit synthesis of L-carnitine and taurine that are necessary for mitochondrial, and thus cardiac health.

TLDR; Grain-free pet foods may facilitate the development of DCM in dogs by their elevated levels of compounds that inhibit L-carnitine, taurine, and vitamin absorption in addition to their decreased levels of nutrients vital for synthesis.

For more information, please refer to these studies:
- [Nature Scientific Reports](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-94464-2)
- [National Center for Biotechnology Information](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7817303/)

L-carnitine mediates the utilization of fatty acids and glucose in the myocardium. The potential of L-carnitine in managing dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in patients has been extensively reported, with additional benefits. This meta-analysis purposed ...

08/06/2024

We have received a information suggesting that individuals who are not affiliated with DNA K9 may be falsely claiming to represent or be associated with our company. In response, we are being proactive in protecting the integrity and reputation of our work.

We urge anyone who has inquiries regarding individuals or entities claiming to represent DNA K9 to contact us directly for verification. It is crucial to ensure the authenticity of any such representations to avoid misinformation and maintain the highest standards of our operations.

DNA K9 Privacy Policy

We are committed to maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of our operations. We strictly adhere to the following privacy guidelines:

1. Search & Investigation: DNA K9 works exclusively with law enforcement agencies upon their request. We do not engage with private individuals, companies, or organizations outside of this scope.

2. No Self-Deployment: We do not self-deploy to any searches or investigations. All our activities are initiated solely at the behest of law enforcement agencies.

3. Confidentiality of Operations: We maintain strict confidentiality regarding all of our activities. We do not disclose, announce, or share any information related to our operations with the media or any unauthorized persons.

4. Verification of Representatives: Any inquiries regarding the authenticity of individuals or entities claiming to represent DNA K9 should be directed to us for verification. We are dedicated to ensuring that only authorized personnel are recognized as part of our operations.

5. Information Security: All data and information related to our activities are securely handled and stored, accessible only to authorized personnel.

By clearly outlining these policies, DNA K9 aims to maintain transparency, protect sensitive information, and ensure the highest level of integrity in all our interactions and operations.

For any questions or concerns regarding our privacy policy or to verify a representative, please contact us at [email protected]

06/06/2024

June is Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to recognize and address the unique mental health challenges men face. Men often encounter societal pressure to appear strong, stoic, and self-reliant, which can lead to underreporting of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Additionally, men are more likely to engage in high-risk behaviors and less likely to seek help for mental health concerns due to societal expectations, stigma, and prejudices against men who ask for help.

This month, let's support the men in our lives by encouraging open conversations about mental health, promoting access to resources, reducing stigma, and being present for our male friends, family, and colleagues.

03/06/2024

HRD K9s have an exceptional sense of smell, enabling them to detect human decomposition odors decades after death. These odors are chemically distinct and can persist in the environment or on objects for long periods, even after attempts have been made to clean or conceal evidence, making HRD K9s crucial for forensic investigations.

Screenshot from on YT

03/06/2024

HRD K9s have an exceptional sense of smell, enabling them to detect human decomposition odors decades after death. These odors are chemically distinct and can persist in the environment or on objects for long periods, even after attempts have been made to clean or conceal evidence, making HRD K9s crucial for forensic investigations.

30/05/2024

Did you miss out on our webinar classes because of scheduling conflicts? Don't worry—we just added our new Virtual Training Calendar to the website!

You can now schedule live one-on-one instruction at a time that’s convenient for you. Whether you want to take one of our past webinars, consult us to answer training questions, or design training interventions, we’re only a few clicks away.

This is only for virtual training and our online courses. In-person training still requires email or a phone call to schedule. 🙂

21/05/2024

We’ve been very busy researching, creating, and testing genuine HRD odor training aids utilizing Getxent technology. As part of this project, we will add a new page to our website, including a FAQ. Our aim is to provide HRD K9 trainers better access to biosafe real odor training aids.

More updates to come soon!

20/05/2024

A short review of the ethics and impacts of civilian SAR volunteers on crime scene investigations, including the potential benefits and relevant concerns regarding their involvement.

For many reasons, we prefer to be “quiet professionals” doing our work in the background to protect the integrity of investigations and the dignity of missing persons.

16/05/2024

I’m very happy to donate DNA K9 swag when I can. This set is going to a SAR team for their seminar coming up in a few weeks.

The Getxent tubes are impregnated with real human decomposition odor under highly-controlled conditions. The greatest benefit of Getxent tubes for HRD K9s is that they deliver true target odor without the need to handle the source material. This provides handlers with a safe and very effective training aid. They are created in batches so that samples from each batch can be tested by our in-house HRD K9s for quality assurance.

The SciK9 TADD™️ is always a favorite, and the 2oz. size is perfectly paired with the Getxent tubes.

Included:

x1 Blank Getxent (for a DIY training aid)
x1 Soft Tissue Complex
x1 Dry Bone and Cartilage
x3 Glass Storage Vials
x3 Metalized Odor Barrier Bags (small)
x1 SciK9 TADD (glass, 2 oz.)
x1 Stainless Steel Storage Canister
x1 Metalized Odor Barrier Bag (medium)
x1 Prep Kit (alcohol wipes, gloves, metal tweezers, labels and stickers, other miscellaneous items.)

21/04/2024

The Merle coat color pattern in dogs is associated with a SINE insertion on the SILV gene. The specific merle phenotypes correspond to base pair lengths of adenine within the poly-A tail of the merle mutation.

16/04/2024

🩸TRAINING AID MANAGEMENT

Managing training aids for biodetection comes with a unique set of challenges that I aimed to address for myself, as well as others working within this niche, including human remains, pathogens, medical alert, and conservation. Not the least of which includes protecting odor integrity by mitigating contamination, cross-contamination, and odor containment failures. These issues frequently occur outside of our awareness and aren’t realized until a dog makes an error, or at least what appears to be an error if not investigated further.

Throughout the years, I’ve extensively explored various systems, materials, manufacturers, and processes, conducting thorough research to distinguish between effective and ineffective components of training aid management. Through trial-and-error, I eventually designed the TAK™ (pictured), built and tested the first prototype, and produced a limited number of them specifically for use in biodetection work. I’ve had the amazing privilege of working with SciK9 to incorporate the TADD™, which has itself been a game changer for odor integrity and delivery. My current project utilizes Getxent tubes as an ideal research tool, as well as HRD K9 training aid, to assess the performance of comparative training aid systems.

The research findings will guide enhancements in the TAK™ design and, ideally, contribute valuable insights to the existing body of research that could benefit K9 handlers.

12/04/2024

Found on Reddit this morning. This is why dog training is a skilled trade. Don’t hire your amateur neighbors to do the work of a professional.

Similarly, if your amateur trainer insists on “out-humping” your 6-month-old puppy, we recommend against allowing that individual to board-and-train your dog.

We currently don’t offer board-and-train service, but we can help keep your dog off the s*x offender registry and save your couch from a chronic humper.