[FONT=Arial]My name is Michelle Ashpole & I am a member of 'Search til Found' Bloodhound unit, based in NSW (Search Hounds). and currently train/handle two young bloodhounds.

I have had the privilege to liaise with two highly credentialed Bloodhound Trainers from Texas , both of whom are Detectives in the Criminal Investigations Division. Mickey Sterling is the senior K-9 handler in the department with Mark Holmes being close behind. Mickey was recruited by his agency as a bloodhound handler while working for TDCJ (Texas Department Of Criminal Justice). Mark Holmes and Mickey Sterling authored the K-9 policy for their agency. Mark and Mickey are also certifying agents in mantrailing and HR recovery for TBSAR (Texas Bloodhound Search & Rescue), as well as certifying agents for the National Bloodhound Training Institute (US).

I am delighted to advise that these two gentlemen have agreed to conduct a 5 day mid week seminar in August 2009 (final dates to be confirmed – most likely 17th - 21st August 2009) in the Hunter Valley NSW. We will be offering limited spaces to handlers from various Service Dog squad units, entities or organisations that may be interested in the training and deployment techniques that they have been using successfully in the U.S.for a long time. In Texasthe court system validated the use of mantrailing hounds on criminal cases in 1903. The state prison system has been using hounds to capture escaped inmates since the civil war (1860's).

I have attached a brief 'bio' on both these gentleman just so can get an understanding of their credentials. If you want to learn a little more about Mark and Mickey, you can go to the members page on the Port Arthur PD website - Texas Bloodhound Search and Rescue- Homepage... It hasn't been updated for a while, but it’s pretty close.

The 5 day seminar will be designed for law enforcement agencies and search and rescue units interested in establishing a Mantrailing Bloodhound unit or current bloodhound handlers wanting some continued intensive training.

We are currently sending invitations to various entities and as places are limited we suggest booking in early. Further information regarding structure, course fees and accommodation can be emailed upon request.

Thankyou for your time and I hope to hear from you soon.

Kind regards

Michelle[/FONT]