Detection K-9 Handler Course August 4–15, 2025

Dates: August 4–15, 2025
Location: Ford K9 Training Center – Santa Rosa, CA
Cost: $2,000 per team (1 handler + 1 trained detection dog)

Do you already have a trained detection dog and want to push your skills to the next level? Whether you’re looking to refine your handling, gain advanced detection knowledge, or explore employment opportunities in the contract K9 world, this course is built for you.

During this 10-day intensive school, handlers will receive advanced instruction in operational search techniques, deployment protocols, handler communication, documentation, and real-world readiness for high-demand assignments. Areas of focus include:

• Explosives detection
• Narcotics detection
• Firearms detection
• Vehicle, building, and area search techniques
• Action-on-find procedures and documentation
• Deployment readiness and handler professionalism

This course also serves as a gateway to employment opportunities. Stratos K9 is actively seeking qualified handlers for current and upcoming contracts. Attendees who demonstrate operational readiness may be offered contract handler positions upon successful completion of the course.

Even if you are not selected for a position with Stratos K9, completing this program will make you a strong candidate for numerous private and government K9 contract roles across the industry.