Scentwork Tools
Scent Channeling Stick
Indicating Odor With Precision
What is a scent channeling stick?
A Scent Channeling stick is a long flat device with a channel running down the middle. Along this channel are pockets designed to hold odor in plastic tubes (typically centrifuge tubes). The odor placed into the tubes flows down the channel away from the source. It is designed to help dogs learn the correct behavior of indicating as close to the source of odor as possible.
History
The conception of the scent channeling stick can best be traced back to Gail McCarthy of Scentinel Nose Work Dog Training. McCarthy uses 10 hole bricks to transition dogs from boxes to developing the “fine motor skills” required to accurately “pinpoint source”. The heavy bricks add the additional benefit of not easily sliding when pawed or knocked into by dogs. I communicated with Rainer Fuchs, a past student of McCarthy’s who now manufactures 3d printed scent channeling sticks. He began manufacturing these sticks after Trimitsis Woodworking retired from making them. Interestingly, the first models were made from wood but Ranier used his passion for 3d printing to create a model out of plastic that could be broken down and reassembled- a quality making it possible to ship and make the channel longer.
The Modern Scent Channeling Stick
The only maker of scent channeling sticks available today is FoxRun3D, owned by Ranier Fuchs. The dimensions of the stick are 31'' x 4'' x 2 1/4''. The sticks are by standard gray, but other colors are offered by request.
My Experience Using This Tool
I first learned about Scent Channeling sticks while researching different tools used in training detection dogs. This tool's unique concept and ingenious yet simple design immediately caught my attention. I could easily imagine the benefits it could bring to my training program. I purchased the stick and messaged the maker to learn more about its origin. When my stick arrived I was pleased with the sturdy construction and how simple it was to assemble. Five centrifuge tubes were also included in my odor. After setting up my channel stick and letting my odor “marinate” and pass through the middle channel, I introduced it in a training session.
Notes
When using the 3d printed scent channeling stick I noted two changes that could be modified to improve the tool. Firstly, the stick is very slick plastic and the bottom slides on hard floors easily. Adding a non-slip material to the bottom of the stick’s three sections will prevent the slipping. Secondly, while the stick coming as three parts makes it much more economical to ship, Ive found that they come apart without much pressure. Adding adhesive like superglue between the sections should help it to hold together in training.
Links
FoxRun3D Scent Channeling stick:
Scentenial Nose Work Dog Training Article:
Archived Scentinel Nose work Dog training stick video:
My video showing the modern 3d printed scent work stick:
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