Another advantage mine detection dogs have over machinery is that they are environmentally friendly. This is highly significant when the land being cleared is to be restored to agricultural use. The mine detection dog is also very cost-effective. Therefore, the combination of dogs and trained local handlers and deminers, with appropriately tailored support equipment, frequently offers the best mix of components to create an optimal demining capability. Finally, the cultural differences found among the various mine-affected countries in the world are not an impediment to the institution of a mine detection dog program.
All dogs speak the same language.
Highly effective dog programs have been successfully implemented, for example, in Afghanistan, Rwanda, Mozambique, and Bosnia. In each country, indigenous deminers and dog-handlers were trained and used successfully. I note that at this conference there are participants representing virtually every major mine detection dog user, trainer, or provider, as well as countries which currently use dogs, have used dogs in the past, or are considering using dogs in the future. The presence of so many knowledgeable and experienced individuals bodes well for successful outcomes as we address the various items on our very full agenda. The synergistic benefits for mine action from a successful addressing of this topic are obvious.