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Dog Handler Recruitment

Dog Handler Recruitment

Being selected after the dog handler recruitment process will involve working with a working dog (such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers and Belgian Malinois) to offer security services. A dog handler’s tasks include performing security patrols, sounding the alarm or monitoring areas.

Typically, Dog Handling companies have operated using Self Employed handlers. However, due to a review undertaken by the Security Industry Authority and HMRC with regards to the IR35 and the Agency Workers Regulations 2010, Security Dog Handling companies are now completing dog handler recruitment and hiring candidates to PAYE. They resultantly should not be using Self Employed Dog Handlers.

Failure to do so means Security Dog Handling companies may fall foul of Government legislation. All of K9 Patrols’ direct dog handlers are on PAYE, and those who’ve transitioned over from Self Employed are now seeing the benefits such as holiday pay and additional training. In addition to the hourly rate, K9 Patrol can assist with some of the expenses incurred by a Dog Handler.

Please note that at this time, K9 Patrol is only seeking to hire applicants with NASDU Level 2 or equivalent. 

The industries that rely on specialist dogs are widespread and include, but are not limited to:

  • Airports
  • Ports
  • Banks
  • Hospitals
  • Nuclear power plants
  • Utility companies
  • Commercial facilities
  • Warehouses
  • Police-led operations (Tracking & Detection Dogs)
  • Unoccupied premises
  • Construction sites
  • Access and egress

What will my role at K9 Patrol entail?

There are several job types available at K9 Patrol in relation to dog handling, as follows:

  • Detection Dogs (Drug, Tobacco, Cash, Explosives, Cadaver, Firearms, Pyrotechnics)
  • Lone worker protection
  • Mobile patrols
  • Farm Security
  • Security guards

Security Dog Handler Jobs

Becoming a security dog handler is a great way for dog lovers to work full-time with a dog unit! An individual should possess:

  • A natural affinity for dogs
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Awareness of good animal care practices
  • Smart appearance
  • Organisational skills
  • Willingness to learn and develop skills via training
  • Know and understand the ‘Five Freedoms’

As a Dog Handler, you must hold a valid SIA Licence and possess a recognised Security Dog Handling Qualification.

A driving licence is mandatory.

Long-term Prospects of Becoming a Dog Handler

Training courses to become a security dog handler vary between organisations, often lasting several weeks. The course to work with K9 Patrol will include handling techniques, grooming skills, kennel management, health and safety, the laws in relation to dog handling and various dog training methods.

In addition, the role is incredibly flexible, allowing candidates to be their own boss with part-time and full-time hours available.

Why Work with K9 Patrol?

K9 Patrol has a reputation for offering some of the best canine security services available in the United Kingdom. Formed in 2009, we have extensive experience in providing high-calibre, reliable and thorough security services.

We hold the NSI Gold accreditation, assessed against British Standards BS 8517-1:2016 Use of General Purpose Security Dogs and BS 8517-2:2016 use of Detection Dogs for our dog handlers – meaning our handlers are some of the best in the industry.

We offer our staff several benefits, such as:

  • Nationwide short-term, long term and ad-hoc work (part-time and full-time roles)
  • PAYE Holiday Entitlement
  • Non-tax-deductible expense payments
  • Internal Continuation Training
  • Access to Health Assure – providing medical, financial and legal support services as well as support for concerns about mental health, childcare, housing, domestic abuse and bereavement (free 24/7 service for all staff)

Should you wish to fill one of our vacancies on our work opportunities page for dog handling, you can contact K9 Patrol at 01423 551526.

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