Experts in the Media: WCU cadaver dog training program wins professional development award

Earlier this winter, WCU's human remains detection cadaver dog training program was awarded the 2022 University Professional and Continuing Education Association award for special populations.

The honor was given out at the UPCEA South Conference in Atlanta and recognizes outstanding professional development programs offered by universities across the southeast.

The event was featured in The Sylva Herald and Ruralite

HRD K9s are a specially trained group of search dogs that specialize in locating missing people in criminal investigations, suicides, overdoses, lost persons, natural disasters and structural collapses.

“Once thought of as a pseudoscience, understanding how canines can be effective and reliable as tools in human remains recovery is being accomplished at WCU through interdisciplinary relationships in the College of Arts and Sciences and WCU’s Forensic Osteology Research Station,” Briggs said.

“It is crucial that HRD K9s be trained on actual human remains and not placenta or pseudo corpse,” Briggs said.

In addition to directing the programs at WCU, Briggs also serves as a search and recovery specialist for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and is on the State Bureau of Investigation Human Remains Task Force, as well as a member of the Department of Homeland Security Reunification Team.

This is an important program and if you are interested in learning more about the role of  cadaver dogs, how they are trained or the other work Lisa Briggs is taking on at Western Carolina University - then let us help with your coverage.

Lisa Briggs is the director of WCU’s emergency and disaster management program. She is available to speak with media any time - simply click on her icon now to arrange an interview today.