K9 Marshall and handler Bonnie Shick have received a double-blind certification in mantrailing through the American Mantrailing, Police & Working Dog Association.
Marshall was brought to an emergency veterinary hospital at nine-weeks-old due to skull fractures. However, Shick didn’t feel euthanasia was his best option and gave him a second chance.
After years of training with k9 Team Liberty and Heaven Scent Search and Rescue, it was time to prove themselves. AMPWDA was chosen for certification for their double-blind standard.
Marshall earned his certification at 11:30 p.m. in the dark and not far from a major highway. Marshall and Shick have assisted in many searches over the years across central and western Pennsylvania.
Both have assisted fire and police departments, as needed, with missing children and adults, hunters, hikers and the elderly.
Marshall and Shick are trained in wilderness, urban and buildings. They’re with Lost and Hound Search and Rescue of Ramey, a volunteer organization.