The events of recent weeks have reaffirmed the importance of cynologists in rescue teams. The rescuers' four-legged partners help search not only in rubble after natural disasters but also track missing or injured persons in inaccessible terrain. Now with the new Pátrač application.
The number of interventions varies every year but cynology teams are an integral part of the Czech security system. Only the Czech Mountain Rescue has twenty-three handlers with their dogs. And it's not only them who help the Integrated Rescue System to search for lost children, disorientated persons or those with suicidal intentions.
At times like those, success depends on speed. Rescue cynology, therefore, joined forces with modern technologies and the pilot version of the Pátrač application now sees the light of the day. It is supposed to help search and rescue cynologists with the rescue by having their search area divided into sectors based on the input information and experience of the participating cynologists, as well as the physical condition of the animal. There are no wasted overlaps in open areas, which increases the effectiveness of the whole rescue.
In action, a search and rescue dog can work for several hours, usually around three, four hours. "It depends on many factors. Whether the dog has had any load that day and what sort. Whether he's rested and when he last had something to eat. There are situations when cynologists are asked for help at times when the animal isn't able to provide maximum performance," explains Ondřej Vank, mountain rescuer and the first Czech Mountain Rescue cynologist from Ore Mountains.
He thinks that the application enables the deployment and maximum use of all available dog search forces. Thanks to this project, a dog that's recovering from a rescue action is allocated a smaller sector. "Without smart technology, which analyses sectors according to the difficulty of the terrain, records and processes data including searched areas, their safety/risks, etc., it wouldn't be possible to plan the use of search and rescue dogs in real life so effectively," adds the handler Vank.
Rescuers and members of cynology teams also help with searching for pets in inaccessible terrain. You can use the Záchranka application to call them. However, do inform the operator that you do not need help for yourself but for your animal friend.
Photocredit: Ondřej Vank
In terms of winter mushing events, 2022 is going to be very busy! If you are as mad about this sport as we are, get your diaries ready so you don't miss out on any of the upcoming events. What can you look forward to in the world of mushing?
Dog is a man's best friend. And it's not only regular people who need a best friend but also celebrities. One of the most "famous" dogs of today is Mr. Amazing - Paris Hilton's Pomeranian. What are the dogs of other celebrities like? Johnny Depp's dog...
Every human-pet household has at least one Christmas photo. It used to sit in a frame on a shelf but in the past years more and more end up on social media. Many people take it even further and set up their pet friend's own profile. In the Czech...
Cats are the guardians of our fireplace so let's reward them at Christmas with our undivided attention and love but also with a present. The first choice might be something tasty. This will definitely not offend any cat companion. Then there are...
Christmas is a time for families to gather and spend time together, which will be enjoyed by both the two-legged and four-legged members. Because it wouldn't be the same without presents, we bring you a few original tips. Dogs will definitely...
If you've already bought Christmas presents for your loved ones, it's time to prepare a surprise for your pet rodents. Here are a few tips to make their eyes sparkle with joy. Treats are an old classic that will please pet rodents of all kinds. Other...
Dogs and other pets can be beneficial for their owners in terms of physical but also mental health. There is truth in saying that a dog is a man's best friend, stands by his owner even at the most difficult times and his presence can even help deal...
This world-famous dogsled race called Šediváček's Long is celebrating a quarter of a century's history. The stage race called the "sleddog trace" is held every year in Deštné in Orlické Mountains. Mushers from all over the world will be competing for...
Christmas is round the corner, together with the traditional cold winter and snow. A big change for our pets. Even cats that spend most of their time outside are going to feel it. How to prepare them for this challenging season?
Have you ever thought how great it would be if we could communicate with animals directly? Your dog or cat could let you know what exactly they need, what they are lacking or in certain situations, they could even help you. This is something that...
Getting your pet from a breeding mill is no longer just a matter of dogs. Nowadays, you are "guaranteed" to be able to purchase cheaply and quickly also cats, various species of rodents or even hedgehogs. What is more, breeding mill owners are...
Your favourite and most important family member is soon to have a rival. How will he react? Will he like the baby? Will he try to bite? What if he cannot cope with it mentally? Or you?
