One damp Sunday afternoon in an unassuming village park in San Pedro, Laguna, dozens of working dog enthusiasts took part in a sought-after seminar spearheaded by professional dog trainers Jeaner Cabrera (who trains the canines of Davao Rep. Paolo Duterte), Michael Lima of the Island Born Kennel, and Gilbert Gatmaitan of Ultimate Fighting Canine Club.

Attendees hailed from different parts of the country, including Laguna, Isabela, Davao, Metro Manila. Discussions centered around topics dog owners could relate to, including scent detection, tracking, and personal protection training.

Several attendees came from various K9 Search and Rescue (SAR) groups that aimed to assist in search-and-rescue operations, especially during typhoons and earthquakes. Cabrera talked about how to properly start scent and detection training, especially for puppies. Others were well-versed in agility ring sports and obstacle course racing for dogs.

A handful of protection dogs demonstrate their obedience and bite work skills. There were Belgian Malinois, working line German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and even a Presa Canario.

The speakers tackled bite development, including basic bite and protection training. A few sporting dog attendees have already competed in the Mondio Ring sport. The workshop then focused on reality protection training, which revolved around real-life events, such as home invasion and mugging.

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Author

Bob Villanueva is a contributor for Manila Bulletin's Animal Scene magazine.

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