Articles
Dogs at Work
By Sherry Shahan
In an ancient house, a mosaic was found that said cave canem. In Latin, that means "Beware of the dog." Being a watchdog is one of many jobs that our four-legged friends have done over the years.
Dogs not only protect property, but they also herd sheep, pull sleds, and rescue people. They are experts at sniffing out everything from fruits and vegetables to human beings. And at the end of a hard day's work, dogs still like to play!
| Avalanche Dogs | ||
|
There are many kinds of search-and-rescue dogs. They are trained to help people in trouble. The canine workers that help the ski patrol are called avalanche dogs. An avalanche occurs when a large mass of snow slides down a mountain. Every year, many people are trapped beneath snow from avalanches. Skilak (in the photo) has been trained to smell the human scent through ice crystals. As soon as he locates a person, he barks. Then Pat, the ski patrolman, gives the order “Search!” Skilak quickly digs out the person. |
|
| Sheepherding Dogs | ||
 |
The main task of sheepherding dogs is to control a flock of sheep. The dogs bark to move a flock from field to field. Sometimes they nip at the sheep’s feet to urge them on. When it’s time to shear the sheep, the dogs nudge them into a pen. The sheepherder commands the dogs by whistling. One whistle means “Round them up!” |
|
| Agriculture Dogs | ||
 |
Agriculture dogs work at airports. They help to prevent harmful insects from coming into the country. These insects may hide in vegetables, fruits, and meats. Hal (at left) sniffs suitcases before the owners pick them up. If Hal smells food hidden inside, he sits down next to the suitcase. This signal tells the inspector to check that suitcase. |
|
| Sled Dogs | ||
 |
Long before airplanes were invented, sled dogs transported goods in snowy regions. Back then, dog teams pulled heavy loads of food and supplies. They even helped to deliver mail to remote villages. Today, sled dogs still help people to get around. They also compete in sled-dog races, like the one shown in the photo. | |
| Service Dogs | ||
 |
Service dogs help people to do things that the people can’t do themselves. Tijo (shown here) is handing a library book to Michelle, his owner. He can also open doors using a special hook. Tijo even helps to make Michelle’s bed in the morning. How? He picks up stuffed animals and tosses them in place. Above all, Tijo is a loving friend. |
