Advisors for the use of Detection Dogs in Conservation

The ADDC has been working hard to produce a comprehensive guidance document for Natural England, Natural Resources Wales and NatureScot, the governing bodies for great crested newt licensing in the UK.

This guidance document has been prepared by UK based board members of the ADDC and is intended to inform licensing decisions in relation to possessing great crested newts for the purpose of detection dog training.

Although this guidance document is primarily intended to assist governing bodies with great crested newt licensing decisions, this document also contains a wealth of information which would be useful and informative for anyone who is considering applying for a licence to possess great crested newts for detection dog training.

This guidance document has been subject to review and comment by the global ADDC, the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust, Natural England and NatureScot.

These guidelines have been developed to support the responsible, ethical and scientifically robust use of wildlife detection dogs within ecological surveys and conservation research across the UK.

As the use of detection dogs within conservation continues to grow, it is increasingly important that clear expectations exist around dog and handler competence, training, welfare, assessment, biosecurity, survey methodology and professional practice.

Developed collaboratively by experienced conservation detection dog practitioners, with input and review from professionals across ecology, conservation and detection dog disciplines, these guidelines provide a practical framework for organisations, ecologists, researchers, clients and detection dog teams.