W W W. D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA NA . C O M
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Bozeman l Big Sky l Big Timber
Livingston l Whitefish
Member FDIC
"handler skills check-off list," which includes not only the obedi-
ence of their K9, but demonstrated skills with navigation, map
and compass, survival, first aid, radio communication, and more.
Handlers will typically put 1,000 hours into a K9 during their first
year, beginning training at eight weeks old and aiming to have
them certified by one year old.
Working as a patroller or SAR volunteer is challenging, time-
consuming work, but contributing to rescues and the importance
of the work makes it worth the effort. "e most rewarding part is
to be able to return someone to their family safe and sound," says
Heigh, "Especially when that person is a small child. Nothing feels
better than to have a successful ending and see the joy on the par-
ent's faces."
On top of potentially being able to save a life, the reward comes
from the handler's bond with their dog. "Being part of a patrol or
rescue dog team is all about trust and having each other's back,"
says Fleming as Wylie rolls over and grins up at us, maybe hoping
for a game, another run, or dreaming of winter at the ski hill.
Just outside LIvingston, Montana, is a
business which brings new meaning to
the phrase "family pet." Svalinn is both
a breeder and trainer of world class
protection dogs.
The dogs are Dutch and German
Shepherds and Belgian Malinois, oc-
casionally cross-bred for certain desirable
traits, all of which have a focus on fierce
family loyalty. Svalinn breeds and trains
protection dogs not based on pedigrees,
but a specific mix of the most desirable
charachteristics, with a special emphasis
on capability, stability and sociability.
Owners Kim and Jeff Greene met in
Afghanistan during military tours, and together recognized a growing de-
mand for highly trained canines which could offer a fine mix of companion-
ship and protection. Inquiries for Svalinn dogs can be made by visiting
the website at www.svalinn.com
"A SVALINN DOG IS AN INVESTMENT
IN YOUR FAMILY'S PERSONAL SAFETY
AND OVERALL PEACE OF MIND.
ALL IN THE PACKAGE OF A LOVING,
LOYAL COMPANION."
TED
WELLS
(3)
BRED TO LOVE,
TRAINED TO PROTECT
