Ep. 115: Blood Tracking Dogs
Cutting The Distance
Deep Dive
Why did Matt Gagnon decide to make a film about blood-tracking dogs?
Matt was inspired by the incredible resource of blood-tracking dogs after witnessing them in action during a hunt. He wanted to highlight the intimate relationship between handlers and their dogs and make this resource more accessible to the public.
What breed of dog does Matt Gagnon have, and how did he train it for blood tracking?
Matt has a Belgian Malinois, which he rescued at around four years old. He trained her by first teaching her basic tracking skills using treats and then transitioning to blood tracking. The dog showed high drive and a strong nose, making the training process quick and effective.
How effective are blood-tracking dogs in recovering big game?
Blood-tracking dogs are highly effective, capable of finding animals even after long periods or in challenging conditions. They can track animals with minimal blood trails and have been successful in recovering animals up to 30-40 hours after the shot.
What are some common breeds used for blood tracking?
Common breeds include dachshunds, Catahoulas, Bavarian mountain hounds, and German shepherds. However, many other breeds, such as retrievers and bird dogs, can also be trained for blood tracking.
What is the best way to train a dog for blood tracking?
The best way to train a dog is to start with simple, short tracks using high-value rewards like treats or a piece of hide. Gradually increase the complexity and length of the tracks, ensuring the dog has many small victories to build confidence and drive.
What should hunters do if they need a blood-tracking dog to recover an animal?
Hunters should mark all blood spots, take photos, and collect as much data as possible. They should avoid grid searching, which can disperse scent, and wait patiently for the dog to arrive. Weather conditions like rain or snow do not hinder the dogs' ability to track.
What is the Rocky Mountain Big Game Recovery organization?
It is a network of blood-tracking enthusiasts who help hunters recover big game animals. They provide a map on their website where hunters can find local trackers and request their services. The organization also hosts events and certifications for trackers.
How far will blood-tracking handlers travel to help recover an animal?
Handlers are willing to travel long distances, sometimes up to 12 hours, to help recover an animal. They are passionate about their work and often do not charge for their services, accepting gratuities or donations instead.
What is the 2025 spring rendezvous for Rocky Mountain Big Game Recovery?
It is an annual event where trackers and dog handlers gather to certify their skills, train their dogs, and network with others in the tracking community. Novices and experienced trackers are welcome to attend and learn more about blood tracking.
- Transitioned from engineering to filmmaking
- Started with commercial projects in Salt Lake City
- Joined MeatEater
- Launched own production company
- Works full-time, balancing personal and hunting-related TV content
Shownotes Transcript