Bed Bug Scent Detection Canine Teams

Bed bug infestations can be detected by specially trained bed bug scent detection canine teams. Because of their abilities, bed bug detection canine teams can be particularly useful in the following circumstances:

When bed bugs are suspected but no live bugs or viable eggs can be found through visual inspection.
For building-wide comprehensive inspections to locate all infested rooms.
In non-bedroom sites such as offices, theaters, schools, public transportation and other unconventional areas.
As an additional method to confirm that bed bugs have been successfully controlled or are not present.
At a minimum, bed bug detection canine teams must be able to detect live bed bugs and viable eggs.
Canine detection teams should be certified.
Certification demonstrates the canine team’s competence by an independent, third-party.
Certification confirms the ability of the team to locate live bed bugs and viable eggs in real world environments.
Certification confirms the canine team’s ability to differentiate live bed bugs and eggs from other odors in structures.
Canine handlers should inform the client of the canine team’s certification status.
Canine handlers should be trained in bed bug biology, behavior, inspection methods and identification.
Effective bed bug detection canine teams must be well trained and their training must be kept up-to-date.
Distracters should be employed as part of the canine teams’ ongoing training program.
Prior to making a treatment, the canine handler or a pest management professional should attempt to confirm the canine alert by:
Visually inspecting the area to confirm the presence of an active infestation, Utilizing a second canine team, or, In some situations, the client may elect to have the room(s) treated without secondary confirmation.

When a scent detection canine team is used for bed bug detection, it shall be performed by a canine team that holds a current, independent, third party certification in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the Minimum Standards for Canine Bed Bug Detection Team Certification. The Minimum Standards for Canine Bed Bug Detection Team Certification is contained in Appendix A of these best practices.