Tower work allows the entire team to work with the details of moving dog teams. At least one person needs to assist the team in getting into the system. Dogs working in the close confines of US&R situations need to be comfortable with people other than their handler helping them. Safety checks are done as with any high-angle work.

Our tower has limited space at the top, so our Z-rig and change of direction must be reset a few times during a haul. The canine teams have the opportunity to test their comfort with their set-up. For training purposes, this can be a good time to talk with the dog and perhaps offer soothing gestures or treats.

The tower windows can be tempting to the dogs. They may wish to reach for the sill. The handler needs to be comfortable calming the dog.

Negotiating the top requires coordination by the haul team. Again, the dog may reach for an edge. Helpers need to lift the dog over any edges so that the dog doesn’t scramble and injure itself or others. The helpers need to hold the dog as the handler comes over the top edge. As the handler comes off the system, the Prusik loop can be loosened quickly and the dog placed on the ground and the handler can remain standing.

Getting into the system from the top of the tower also requires a helper to hold the dog as the handler moves into the system. Practicing together allows the entire team to become comfortable with the process. It is important to ease the dog into the system. The dog should not be pushed off the edge and made to drop into the harness.

Finally, when reaching the ground, the handler is able to control the team’s landing. The handler can position them both in a safe place before letting the dog contact the ground.