Using scat detection dogs to monitor environmental contaminants in sentinel species and freshwater ecosystems

Abstract

Many contaminants are introduced into freshwater ecosystems worldwide. Preliminary investigations that focus on apex predator/sentinel species like otter and mink can inform more targeted follow-up studies. The feces of these elusive animals can be collected non-invasively for analysis of contaminants and complimentary genetics. Conservation detection dogs were used to locate otter and mink feces along five rivers in Montana for analysis of heavy metals, anthropogenic organic contaminants (AOCs) including pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), polybrominated (PBDE) flame retardants, and genetics. With highest find rates of 6 and 20 fecal matter finds per km for otter and mink, respectively, and detection of all three focal contaminants in some fecal samples, this proved an excellent application of dogs. Recommendations for follow-up investigations are also provided.