Death, Decomposition, and Detector Dogs: From Science to Scene

Death,Decomposition,and Detector Dogs: From Science to Scene,Second Edition is a book that helps canine handlers,detectives,death investigators,crime scene personnel,and attorneys understand the science involved when utilizing human remains detector (HRD) canines as a locating tool. It covers the basic anatomy and physiology of canine olfaction, forensic taphonomy, and how the odor of human remains is generated through various stages of decomposition. It also includes case reports involving decedents found in both land and water settings and different weather conditions to help the reader understand how the environment may have affected the condition of the decedent.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Death, Decomposition, and Detector Dogs: From Science to Scene, Second Edition is a comprehensive guide designed to assist canine handlers, detectives, death investigators, crime scene personnel (including forensic laboratory personnel, technicians, and supervisors), and attorneys in understanding the science behind utilizing human remains detector (HRD) canines as a locating tool. The book delves into the fundamental anatomy and physiology of canine olfaction, highlighting the unique characteristics that enable dogs to be trained to detect distinct odors. Through concise and visually appealing explanations, accompanied by photographs, the book explores the science of forensic taphonomy, emphasizing factors that may influence the decomposition process and the potential outcomes encountered.

The book examines the generation of odor from human remains throughout different stages of decomposition, considering the impact of environmental conditions in both land and water settings. It also provides valuable background information that can aid in determining possible search locations for missing individuals, as well as assist the HRD canine handler in developing effective search plans. Additionally, the book discusses various tools and technologies that can be employed alongside an HRD canine team, expanding the reader's understanding of the diverse approaches used in searching for a decedent.

To further enhance the reader's understanding, several case reports involving decedents found in various land and water settings, as well as under different weather conditions, are included. These case reports showcase how the environment may have influenced the condition of the decedent, providing valuable insights into the complexities of forensic investigations.

In this edition, the book has been expanded to include more case reports that detail how environmental factors were considered in HRD canine deployments in both land and water settings. This addition further emphasizes the importance of considering environmental factors in the search for missing individuals and the role that HRD canines play in such endeavors.

By providing a comprehensive and detailed exploration of the science, techniques, and applications involved in utilizing HRD canines, Death, Decomposition, and Detector Dogs: From Science to Scene, Second Edition serves as a valuable resource for professionals in the field. It equips readers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively utilize these remarkable dogs in their search for missing persons and in investigating crime scenes.

Weight: 488g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032108308
Edition number: 2 ed