Detection Dogs Services

The Authority (HMRC) is required to tackle the threat posed by the movement, storage, distribution and sale of illicit goods throughout the UK. This is achieved by deploying detection dogs to assist HMRC officers whilst they are inspecting or searching premises and vehicles to identify concealments and storage points of illicit products and the subsequent seizure of any illicit goods discovered.

The contractor to provide the requisite number of personnel, dogs and other resources to meet the needs of HMRC for the provision of detection dogs and handlers.

The Contractor must ensure that its personnel i.e. handlers are suitably trained to competently perform detection tasks effectively.

The Contractor's training programme will cover as a minimum the requirements set out below: •How to diffuse aggressive behaviour

•The application of UK Human Rights, Children's Legislation and cultural diversity and racial awareness

•Health and Safety

•Security Awareness

•First Aid

•Fire Safety

•Care and welfare of the dog

•First Aid for Dogs

•Hygiene of kennels and grooming of dogs

•Training in handling a working dog; this must be praise and reward based and must not be compulsion-based.

•Training of handler & dog to detect goods hidden in premises and vehicles.

•A HMRC Officer shall be permitted to evaluate, monitor and review the Contractor's training programmes and practices; as requested by the Authority.

The contractor must have immediate access to the appropriate number of handler(s) and dog(s) which are fit and effective whilst having regard for the welfare and well-being of the dog(s) under his/her control.