Cadaver Dog

The cadaver dog unit is a unique part of the OVERT team. Our K9 handlers and their canine partners are tasked with the location of human remains. This can be the result of numerous scenarios and in a variety of situations. These dogs are trained to locate the scent of human remains only. The dogs are exposed to all aspects of the human bodies' decomposition process and the environments that these may be located.

Although our highly trained canine partners are the predominant tool utilized, the handlers also have to undergo extensive training in a variety of disciplines including Taphonomy, forensic psychology, and related forensic training geared to the location of human remains. Our canine teams were amongst the first cadaver dog teams in Ontario and have participated in numerous search operations and major case investigations over the years.

Despite the nature of the work that our team is involved in, it is our belief that the location of ones' missing family members and any evidence that may be gathered far outweighs the negative aspect of the job we do.