1st February 2025
Training courses for handlers of avalanche dogs are struggling to recruit volunteers. The dogs are essential to many rescue operations despite the advances in technology. In the Valais canton, home…
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Training courses for handlers of avalanche dogs are struggling to recruit volunteers.
The dogs are essential to many rescue operations despite the advances in technology.
In the Valais canton, home to Verbier, Zermatt and other major resorts, there are around 50 trained dog handlers.
That’s 30% less than two decades ago.
The training course takes several days a week for three years.
“You have to be available to go into rescue work,” Yvan Morath, head of training for the French-speaking part of Valais, told Swiss public television, RTS.
“People prefer to do something else.”
“You have to commit yourself, attend compulsory training sessions and cantonal courses.”
Those interested in taking the course must also have a dog of a certain build as well as pass an entry test to meet certain requirements.
They need experience in the mountain environment and be physically fit.
They must have an excellent relation with their animal.
“People think that with today’s technology, dogs are no longer relevant,” added Morath.
“But in fact, they remain a key component of rescue operations.”
Switzerland. Image © PlanetSKI