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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this archaeology?
No. Our services are non-invasive and do not involve excavation, testing, or formal archaeological identification. Detection canine surveys provide additional information to support planning, consultation, and risk avoidance where culturally sensitive sites may be present.
Does this work disturb the ground?
No. All surveys are conducted without excavation, probing, or collection. Methods are designed to be discreet and non-invasive.
Can canines confirm the presence of human remains?
No. Canine responses indicate areas of potential interest that may warrant consideration, avoidance, or further consultation by appropriate authorities or additional tools. Odor detection alone does not confirm the presence of human remains.
What do the dogs detect?
Our dogs are trained specifically to detect odors associated with human decomposition, particularly related to ancestral burials from before the wide-spread adoption of modern funerary practices (embalming) in North America. Responses indicate the possible presence of these odors in soil or environmental substrates and may inform planning decisions.
What factors affect detection?
Soil composition, moisture, burial depth, disturbance history, surface conditions, and environmental variables can influence detection. Results are interpreted conservatively within the context of site conditions.
What is the oldest burial dogs have detected?
Specially trained dogs were used in a project in Croatia and were able to detect a churchyard with burials from the 8th century BC! Our dogs are trained regularly to detect burials over 200 years old, and have experience detecting remains as old as 1,500 years or more. That said, the age of a burial cannot be determined through canine detection.
How is this used in regulatory contexts?
Detection canine surveys help inform planning, consultation, and avoidance strategies within regulatory frameworks such as NHPA Section 106 or NAGPRA. They do not replace required processes or make regulatory determinations.
Who makes final decisions about cultural resources?
Final decisions regarding identification, treatment, and management of cultural resources rest with the appropriate authorities, consulting parties, and stakeholders. Our role is limited to providing non-invasive information to support those decisions.
Is this service appropriate for culturally sensitive lands?
Yes, when requested or approved by appropriate Tribal, community, or land management authorities. Engagements are structured to respect cultural sovereignty, confidentiality, and community protocols.
What goes into the cost of detection canine services?
Cost reflects project size, logistics, documentation needs, and reporting scope. Services are typically scoped in advance to provide useful planning information efficiently.
