Scent Work is a mentally stimulating, casual activity designed for enrichment and fun. It simulates what professional detection dogs do—without the intense requirements—by teaching dogs to search for specific odors, such as birch, hidden in various environments.

This activity is perfect for boosting your dog’s confidence and providing mental enrichment. It’s suitable for all dogs and their owners, whether as a fun everyday activity to add stimulation to your dog’s routine or simply for bonding time.

Dogs with medium to high toy or food motivation, or a natural desire to sniff and search, are ideal candidates for scent work.

Not sure if it’s right for your dog? Don’t worry—we can assess this during the Scent Work Orientation.

Our Scent Work Orientation is a 30-minute session held at our Rocklin location. Cost is $50 per session.

Please note: We currently have appointments on Wednesdays only. If you have any trouble getting set up, please reach out to us via email and we can help schedule a custom time that works for you. 

Once your orientation is complete, you can schedule 30-minute Private Sessions, also held at our Rocklin location for $50 per appointment.

We can’t wait to help your dog discover the exciting world of scent work!

Sandy brings a wealth of expertise and experience to her role, drawing from an impressive 18-year career with the San Jose Police Department. During her time as an officer, she served in patrol, special operations, narcotics, vice, and numerous specialized assignments. Highlights of her career include providing protection for the President of the United States, assisting the FBI in anti-terrorism operations, and earning certification as a narcotics expert.

After retiring from law enforcement, Sandy has operated a successful Private Investigations and K9 Detection business since 2012. Her extensive background includes providing executive protection for high-profile clients such as executives, celebrities, and professional athletes, as well as managing security for events like the Super Bowl, corporate gatherings, and international dignitary visits.

Sandy’s certifications and training include:

• Certified K9 handler in narcotics and explosives detection.
• Annual training and certification with the California Narcotics Canine Association (CNCA) for narcotics and explosives K9 handlers.
• Certified mussel detection K9 handler.
• Graduate of the Performance Kennels Single Purpose Detection Course, a POST-approved program led by Master Trainer Steve Pearson.
• Participant in HITS Training, the world’s largest K9 seminar for law enforcement handlers.

Meet Her K9 Partners

K9 Danka – Narcotics Detection

K9 Danka has an impressive track record, including:

• Regularly finding illegal narcotics during private jet searches at Oakland and San Francisco Airports.
• Conducting searches for the NBA, including the Golden State Warriors Air Bus to China.
• Performing searches for foreign dignitaries and private schools, including full-campus sweeps of lockers and parking lots.
• Searching the San Leandro Waste Management facility, covering extensive employee facilities.

K9 Kona – Explosives Detection

K9 Kona has been instrumental in ensuring safety at high-profile events, including:

• California’s Great America
• Google events
• Festivals like Coachella, Stagecoach, and Day N Vegas
• Comic-Con events in San Diego and San Jose
• Dreamforce in San Francisco

Sandy’s dedication to excellence and her extensive experience make her an incredible asset to our team. We’re excited for our clients to learn from such a seasoned professional and her amazing K9 partners.