Looking ahead: Future directions and considerations for using detection dogs in aquatic environments and ecosystems

Abstract

This concluding chapter reviews all topics covered in the book via eight broad themes: (1) working with dogs in aquatic environments, (2) monitoring presence/absence of aquatic species in water and at terrestrial/aquatic interfaces through biological/ecological surveys, (3) evaluating and maintaining water quality, (4) law enforcement and anti-poaching initiatives, (5) promoting public education, awareness, and compliance, (6) ensuring standards and best practices, (7) optimal uses of dogs in relation to other available tools, and (8) pragmatic considerations of selecting, training, and working with dogs and handlers. Ensuing considerations (e.g., gaps in knowledge in, and perceptions related to, current enforcement and anti-poaching efforts) and a plea for dissemination of proof of concept findings at the early stages of discovery are also offered.