PROTOCOL for WASHING CONTAINERS
Cathy is on a septic tank. They only run the dishwasher when they have a full load. So what to do about the "wash twice in the dishwasher" protocol?
We have decided that the important thing is to be consistent. The purpose of the double washing is to remove residual scent from containers and cans.
Cathy will devise her own hand washing and boiling water protocol, document it and use it consistently in her testing.
DOES SCENT DISSIPATE?
Cathy is using cheese shakers for her testing containers. They are larger than the S & P shakers that Jan, Sue and I are using. The holes are larger as well.
This morning, using 4 day old Almond Extract, Cathy did an extra test on the wheel. Rooster could not find the odor.
Does the scent dissipate because of the different container?
Should Cathy be storing the target container differently between tests?
Cathy has raised many questions.
I have asked her to document this morning's testing. And to continue the remaining two qualifying tests using the same equipment. I have also asked that she freeze the remaining two scent samples for future testing.
We discussed the long range importance of the viability of older scent sample in the training model. We ARE including viability and age in our testing protocol.
TREAT vs THE JOB
Cathy is concerned that Rooster is more concerned about receiving his treat than about doing his job. She is working w/Rooster and Monty at the present time on not looking for the treat when hearing the click. We will discuss this further. My thought is that this is NOT a training experience. The dog is now merely a device for determining viability of sample.
We further discussed what I do with Lily between trials in each set when re-setting the target container. I replied that I reposition her in a sit away from the scent wheel.