A Centralized Source of Information for the Military Working Dog Program

Abstract

This study is in response to the lack of a comprehensive source of information concerning the production of high quality working dogs- Sources of information and the components required to establish a framework for a successful working dog program are identified and discussed by over 187 subject matter experts. Forms of inquiry include a traditional literature search utilizing Dissertation Abstracts, Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC), the National Technical Information Service (NTIS), Index Medicus, FEDLINK Technical Notes, On Line Computer Library Center (OLCLC), a questionnaire, oral and telephonic interviews, and written requests for follow-up information. The study concludes that: 1) The lack of a centralized system to consolidate and standardize pertinent information about the production and further development of working dogs is an industry-wide problem, and 2) Ample information, resources and expertise exist to ensure the optimum operation of any working dog program, once goals, resources, methods of procurement and training, and commitment by management are ensured. Recommendations focus on the need to exploit outside expertise, and to establish an information management system designed to ensure that the sources of information described in this thesis are kept current. This in turn will serve as a foundation for further update, reference and study. Implications for further research center on four factors identified by the author to be crucial to the MWD Program. They are the absence of a master plan, fragmented command and control (management), inconsistent methods of procurement, and the impact of rejection rates on the quality and quantity of the end product. Additional research needs to be directed at each of these factors in order to verify and demonstrate the optimum method(s) and principles involved in producing a consistent supply of top performing working dogs within the MWD Program.