Abstract Introduction Operational Canines are highly trained and valuable animals that support emergency and disaster response efforts, such as Search and Rescue, scene security, and recovery operations. While working, Operational Canines often encounter dangerous operational and environmental situations. Discussion To maintain their health and operational readiness, it is critical that Operational Canines receive regular wellness care before entering the field and emergency treatment when necessary in the field. Limitations Nevertheless, the most common first responders to Operational Canine field emergencies—Canine Handlers, Law Enforcement Officers, and Emergency Medical Service personnel—often have limited species-specific medical training, and there are no nationally standardized training programs. Conclusion This article proposes a nationally standardized program to train first responders, specifically Canine Handlers, Law Enforcement Officers, and Emergency Medical Service personnel on Operational Canine wellness management and emergency medical care at a level tailored to participants’ knowledge and skill sets. Finally, this article discusses recent legal trends relating to OpK9 emergency medical care, which highlight the pressing need for a nationally standardized training program.
Santos et al. (Thu,) studied this question.