Sniffing out survivors: The science and care behind AUS 1 DART K9s
Tracks
Stream Two - Plaza P1 & P2
| Thursday, March 26, 2026 |
| 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM |
| Plaza P1 & P2 |
Overview
Jo Rainger
Speaker
Jo Rainger
Sniffing out survivors: The science and care behind AUS 1 DART K9s
Abstract
The Australian Disaster Assistance Response Team (AUS 1 DART) K9 Urban Search and Rescue unit plays a vital role in locating survivors during disasters through advanced scent-detection and search skills. This presentation offers veterinary nurses an inside look at the selection, training, and welfare of these highly skilled dogs, with a focus on odour detection science, behavioural conditioning, and operational readiness. Attendees will explore how veterinary support underpins the health, performance, and wellbeing of USAR dogs in demanding environments, and how evidence-based training and care practices contribute to effective, ethical, and life-saving operations.
Biography
Jo Rainger is a registered specialist in the field of Veterinary Anaesthesia and a Fellow of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Science. Jo currently works as a veterinary anaesthetist at UQ Vets small and large animal hospital at the University of Queensland. She graduated from the University of Sydney in 1994. In 2000 Jo was awarded her Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Sydney for her research work in equine strangles. She started her residency at the University of Sydney in 1999 and has been working in the field of veterinary anaesthesia since then.
Jo is dedicated to providing high quality anaesthesia care and pain management to both small and large animal patients. She is also passionate about furthering her knowledge in this field and contributing to the education of undergraduates and graduates in the field of veterinary science.
