D4-O-01

Future Course Availability – 2027

GERMA is a newly established Public Benefit Organisation and is developing its training and capability offer in a phased and responsible manner. Domain D4 – Animal Detection Systems is included in the GERMA Capability and Training Compendium as a future development domain, with initial courses planned to become available from 2027 onwards.

Animal Detection Systems require specialist facilities, trained animals, competent handlers, experienced trainers, veterinary support, welfare systems, validation processes and quality assurance arrangements. GERMA will therefore develop this domain progressively to ensure that any future training is safe, credible, welfare-aware and aligned with client needs and recognised good practice.

The initial focus of Domain D4 will be the development of K9 handler trainer capability within the HMA sector. Future areas may include mine detection dogs, explosive detection dogs, tracking dogs, kennel management, handler refresher training, welfare systems, deployment planning, validation and wider animal detection programme development.

GERMA’s intent is to build this capability carefully, ensuring that future courses are supported by appropriate facilities, qualified personnel, training aids, animal welfare arrangements and operationally relevant procedures. Courses will only be offered once GERMA is satisfied that they can be delivered to the required standard.

Clients, partners and interested organisations are encouraged to monitor the GERMA website for updates on the development of Domain D4 courses, future availability, course dates and partnership opportunities.