The K9 would need to be full time. The larger expense usually would be the compensation for the handler, but a creative approach like training a volunteer resident or an existing staff member could make the approach affordable. The dog could also be utilized to anchor an interesting public fund raising campaign.

A bed bug dog could be placed into service for ninety days as a demonstration project to explore the efficacy of utilizing a K9 team to achieve bed bug control with a transient population. You could give each resident the option of using a building that is screened with a K9 or a separate dormitory that isn’t being screened.

As NYJamming points out there would need to be strict protocols, but the K9 team screening concept would allow each resident to maintain control of their possessions. A protocol that requires people to surrender their property at the door could create problems.

I do not believe that bedbug dogs are the answer. I never agreed with employing a bedbug dog in the first place. I’m against bedbug dogs and feel the money spent on the dogs should be put to better use like trying to find a cure.

An easier and more affordable way to try to keep bbs from being reintroduced is to have strict guidelines as to what can be taken in and outta the facility and washing and drying clothes upon immediate return from outside with showers for everyone. Imagine going to the store, picking up your children from school, etc. and every time you come back to be sniffed by a dog. Showers and uniforms and clean clothes should be implemented into shelters. A protocol, a system, not bb dogs.

Care should be taken during the construction of the new facility to make the accommodations unfriendly for bed bugs. As long as a reservoir of bed bugs exists in the community they will continue to be reintroduced into the facility.

The only practical way to keep bed bugs from being reintroduced into the facility would be to utilize a Bed Bug Dog to screen each guest & their possessions each time they enter the building.