Sniff & rescue: Sheriff’s Office to hold third bloodhound training seminar

Photo provided by Hamilton County Sheriff's Office

The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office will play host to the third annual bloodhound seminar Sept. 24 to 28. With over 20 teams from across the United States attending, this training offers over 40 hours of fieldwork for these handler and K-9 duos.

“Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office has this workshop to provide education and support to K-9 teams throughout the county and beyond,” said Deputy Neal Hoard, seminar host. “With seven groups from the state, this week specifically increases training to teams in central Indiana, so that our bloodhound handlers are equipped to handle any real-life scenario.”

The training spans past just fieldwork, offering scenario-based workshops and legal and medical roundtables to the attendees. Two instructors are designated to every five handlers allowing for an individualized approach to teaching.

The seminar is held at the Indiana Diabetes Camp each year and the handlers train throughout Hamilton County. Registration for the seminar opened in late spring and closed beginning of August.

Handlers interested in attending the 2024 seminar are encouraged to reach out to Deputy Neal Hoard at kenneth.hoard@hamiltoncounty.in.gov.