Mounted search and rescue

["IRVIN LICHTENSTEIN" <ilichten1@verizon.net>]

Only two dogs have ever bothered my mount. Both were Shepards. One belonged
to a youth hostel manager who kept it on a chain and runner. The third time
he came after us he was loose and I let my mount face him down, with a rear
leg ready to go. The owner made all kinds of noises and I informed the park
superintendent. He and the dog were gone in a week.  The other was an air
scent dog working an exercise which left the exercise area and charged. The
dog was excused from any further training. 

 

In PA it is a violation of the state crimes code to harass a search animal
at any time, on duty, training or off duty.  They are classed the same as
police animals.  Besides the conviction and fines the harasser is liable for
vet bills, lost time, replacement costs, re-training costs, even the cost of
the handler's lost work time.  The harassed animal must be owned by a person
affiliated with a recognized search organization providing emergency
services.  

 

The next dog ............

 

Irv Lichtenstein