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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What is Mantrailing?Mantrailing is a sport training dogs to find people by following their unique scent trail. All dog's have a natural ability to hunt and therefore Mantrailing provides them with an outlet to do this in a safe, controlled and constructive way We teach them how to harness their amazing sense of smell and turn it into a super fun activity to do together as a sport. Mantrailing Global offers Mantrailing as a fun sport for pet dogs and their owner. We do not teach dog and handler teams to become operational Search & Rescue dogs.
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Who can take part?Dog and owner teams can take part in Mantrailing no matter the size, age, breed or disability. Mantrailing is a low impact sport, which unlike some dog sports, means there is less pressure and stress on your dog's joints which means puppies, older dogs and those who need more careful exercise management can still join in the fun.
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How can I get started?To get started on your Mantrailing journey you will need to attend an Introduction session with one of our qualified Mantrailing Global Instructors. Please contact them directly to find out more about their available introduction courses. To find your nearest Instructor, visit our online Instructor map here: www.mantrailing-ireland.com/findaninstructor
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What is the difference between Mantrailing and Tracking?Mantrailing allows the dog to search in a way that they would naturally hunt, allowing them to use multiple natural skills which they already possess. As a handler, we then learn what their body language and behaviours look like when using these skills during a trail to collect information and work as a team to achieve success. Tracking is a taught behaviour where the dog asked to follow footsteps and ground disturbance.
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Do I have to commit to attending regular Mantrailing sessions?No, you are welcome to attend sessions as often or as little as you like. We have clients who trail weekly and some who only come once per month. Like with all training, the more training you put in, the more you get out.
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My dog doesn't like people or dogs, can they still do Mantrailing?We welcome reactive dogs to our Mantrailing sessions. As dogs are worked one at a time and kept on a longline under control at all times and is also not necessary to have their space invaded by unfamiliar people/dogs, it is the perfect sport for nervous or reactive dogs to enjoy. We just please ask to ensure that you inform your instructor of any behavioural needs/ requirements prior to your session.
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Does my dog need any previous training for Mantrailing?No previous training is necessary to attend Mantrailing. During Mantrailing the dog is never let off-lead so you don't even need a good recall! We do ask that you please ensure you let your instructor know if they have any behavioural issues we need to know about prior to attending a session.
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Do I need to buy any equipment for Mantrailing?All you need for Mantrailing is a long-line, harness and food rewards for your dog. If it’s your first time attending an introduction session, please enquire with your instructor if you need to borrow any necessary equipment. Don’t forget to also bring an item of clothing that you have recently warn which will smell like you. An appropriate item such as a glove, sock, scarf or neck chief make excellent scent articles. (no underwear please!)
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Does my dog need to wait in the car?During Mantrailing you will be required to actively participating in the other dog and handler teams trails, as well as be encouraged to observe the other trails for another dimension of learning. In between your dogs goes, they will be required to settle in your vehicle to rest between work and process their learning (supervised by an attendee for security.) If your dog struggles to settle in the car alone, please inform your instructor as they will be able to provide some advice on how to help prepare them for this. Alternatively, you are welcome to bring a friend or family member to wait with them between their goes.
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Can I bring a family member or friend with me to a Mantrailing session?You are more than welcome to bring a friend or family member with you to a trailing session. We always welcome extra Mispers to hide for the dogs or supervise your dog in between theirs goes. If your friend/family member would like to handle the dog attending, you will need to speak to your instructor directly to ensure the correct introduction process has been completed.
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