Dates: January 12th – 23rd, 2026

Instructors: Mike Veale and Wesley Visscher

Location: Ens, Netherlands (training) – Amsterdam, Netherlands (arrival/departure)

Price: $1,500 per person

Overview:
This immersive, two-week K9 handler and operational training program is designed for individuals looking to gain hands-on experience in tracking, scent detection, and operational K9 handling specifically for wildlife conservation, protection, and counter-wildlife trafficking operations.

Participants will work daily with highly trained operational K9s across multiple disciplines, developing foundational skills and advancing to scenario-based operational exercises. Training covers:

• Multi-discipline scent detection (wildlife contraband, narcotics, explosives, snares, SIM cards, cash)

• Tracking and trailing in diverse environments

• Controlled bite work and operational obedience

• Handler skill development: dog behavior, task management, ethical handling

• Operational scenario training: understanding criminal concealment tactics, barrier management, and team integration

The course includes full access to Scent Imprint Conservation Dogs’ training grounds, daily instruction by expert K9 handlers, and practical exposure to real-world operational challenges in conservation.

Travel & Logistics:
Participants will be picked up and dropped off at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Accommodation recommendations, daily transportation for training activities, and course materials are included.