Interquest Detection Canines®
Answers to Commonly Asked Questions
What is canine contraband detection?
As defined, canine contraband detection is the utilization of scent-trained canines to detect
the presence of prohibited items.
We exclusively train gentle, mild mannered breeds like Golden and
Labrador retrievers as well as Springer Spaniels, Weimaraners, and mixed breeds
which are well known to be "people friendly".
The dogs are trained to sniff lockers, classrooms, parking lots and any other
locations within a school or business. Legal parameters preclude the use of
dogs to sniff people.
Why is canine contraband detection becoming more common?
The increasing number of incidents involving drugs and public violence has
necessitated a growing need for increased safety and security.
The harsh reality is that illegal narcotics, abused medications, alcohol and also
weapons are pervasive in schools, and account for approximately 70% of
work-related injuries.
When was canine contraband detection introduced?
The concept of trained detection canines was introduced to schools in Texas
by the staff at Interquest over 25 years ago.
The program was widely accepted as a tool to increase safety in schools and
to deter the presence of drugs, weapons and contraband on campuses everywhere.
Industry searches became a bi-product of our school business.
The Horton case of the early 1980's set the modern day parameters for the use
of dogs in schools. For more information visit our Links page.
How does canine contraband detection work?
A program of regular canine visits is developed to detect and deter contraband.
In most instances, the drug-sniffing dogs are brought in to meet the students
and/or employees beforehand. Then, the dogs come in with a handler on a random,
unannounced basis to check designated areas. When the dog smells contraband,
he simply sits next to the article containing the odor of the contraband item.
What happens when a dog finds drugs or other illegal contraband?
If the dog detects a contraband odor, the responsible party is escorted
to the scene. They are briefed on the dog's capabilities and given an
opportunity to offer an explanation as to the nature of the dog's interest.
The location is then inspected by the handler and contraband items discovered are sealed in
an evidence bag and turned over to school officials or company security.
Disciplinary action is at the discretion of the school or employer.
Do I need a contraband detection program?
If you are concerned about workplace or school safety and security and the
presence of drugs, abused medication, alcohol, or firearms on your grounds,
a contraband detection program could be the solution you are seeking. Once again,
we validate and deter the presence of unwanted contraband on the school campus
or in the workplace. Or, if you are looking for another "tool" to compliment
your existing deterrence programs, this is a viable option.
We would be pleased to provide you with additional information on how one of our
programs can work for you.
We invite you to contact our Headquarter Office at:
21900 Tomball Parkway
Houston, Texas 77070
281-320-1231 (In Houston)
800-481-7768 (Toll Free)
281-320-2512 (Fax)
interq@interquestk9.com
Or contact the office nearest you by calling:
866-687-6666
