Bozeman, MT - May 10, 2025 Odor Recognition Test

National Association of Canine Scent Work, LLC®

Official NACSW™ 

ODOR RECOGNITION TESTS

Odors Tested: Birch, Anise, Clove

Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025

Test Site Hours: 8 am til end of test

Test Location: Gallatin County Fairgrounds – Hog Arena, 901 N. Black, Bozeman, MT 59715

Test Host: The Canny Canine

 Test Host Contact Info: Carolyn Murray – Carolyn@TheCannyCanine.com 

Certifying Official: Carolyn Murray

Judge: Alyssa Hitchcock

Entry Cost: $30 per test

Number of Entries: 100

~ORT ENTRY INFORMATION~ 

Opening Date: Sunday, March 30th at 8 am Mountain Time

Entries Close: Saturday, May 3rd at 5 pm Mountain Time or When entry limits have been met

Second Dog Policy: Two dogs per handler for each odor tested.

Entry Method

First received by electronic entry. 

ENTRY FORM + PAYMENT LINKS WILL BE HERE
 

● First received via Google form with complete payment.

● Telephone, Fax, Unsigned Entries, And Entries Received Without Fees Cannot Be Accepted.

● Returned Checks Do Not Constitute A Valid Entry Fee. Host will charge $35 for bounced checks/$50 for international.

A Qualified Entry is one that meets all the following criteria:

1. Complete entry during the specified entry time frame.

2. The Handler is a NACSW member for the 2024-2025membership year (8/1/24- 7/31/25). 

3. The Dog is registered with the NACSW.

4. Dogs participating in an Odor Recognition Test (ORT) must be at least six months of age.

For Exhibit Only Dogs (FEO): Dogs running FEO are not eligible to receive titles. FEO results will not be included in the posted ORT results. If space remains after all qualified entries are accommodated on [April 6th, 2025], then we will offer spaces for those who wish to run a dog (FEO). Dogs may only run FEO in odors that they are not already registered for.

For information on how to register or become a member go to www.NACSW.net

Trial Eligibility and ORTs

The ORT Title must be earned at least 14 days before a trial opening date to be eligible for the first draw period.

All odors must be passed in order to earn the ORT title. It is not required that they all be passed at the same test.
 

Notification

Acknowledgement of entry acceptance/confirmation, will be made by email when entries are processed for those handlers that provide an email address. If you require confirmation via USPS, you must provide a self-addressed stamped envelope with your entry. Your payment receipt and notification are confirmation of your completed entry.

Basic Description of the Test

To successfully pass an ORT a dog must identify the location of the target odor, and the handler must correctly call an “alert” within a two minute thirty seconds (2:30) time period. The Odor Recognition Test consists of a drill type exercise which requires 12 closed boxes typically set up in a pattern of two rows, spaced a minimum of 36” apart. The ORT is conducted on leash. Complete information can be obtained on the NACSW website. Handlers may test on all 3 odors at the same event.

All exhibitors should obtain and review a copy of the NACSW K9 NOSE WORK® RULE BOOK. You may get it from their website: www.NACSW.net 

No dog will be given more than one space in the same odor test at a single event.

CANCELLATION POLICY

● [For cancellation of entries on or before Saturday, April 25th, full refund less $5 processing fee. No refunds will be offered thereafter.

All cancellations must be emailed to the Carolyn Murray – carolyn@thecannycanine.com. 

Entry fees shall not be refunded if a dog or handler is absent, disqualified, or excused by the NACSW official or judge.

This cancellation and refund policy applies to handlers that must withdraw for any reason including but not limited to injury, illness, emergency, and personal or work-related reasons.

If the event cannot take place or be completed by reason of fire, civil disturbances, an Act of God, public emergency, or any other cause beyond the control of the event organizers, then the event host will make their best effort to provide partial refunds after recouping their expenses.

LOCATION DETAILS

ADA Site Specific Conditions

This event location is at a public fairgrounds. The parking lot is unpaved and could be very muddy in rainy conditions. There could be a small step out of the barn upon exit. The barn is private but other events would be happening at the fairgrounds that include livestock.

Weather in Montana is highly variable and teams should be prepared for all kinds of conditions including snow.

Due to unforeseen conditions, such as weather or change in availability of areas at the location, these conditions may be modified at the last minute.

Modeled after real-life detection work, NACSW events are held in many different locations, with a variety of terrain, under varying weather conditions. Dogs and handlers need to be able to safely negotiate a variety of surfaces, including, but not limited to, tile, linoleum, carpeting, gravel, asphalt, uneven surfaces, and slippery footing. Handlers should be prepared to deal with a variety of weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain and snow. Events frequently require covering extensive distances to get to and from the parking area to each of the search areas and generally require that this be done across natural, uneven surfaces. Handlers should be prepared for physical demands and must be able to navigate the terrain with their dog accordingly. Handlers should expect to spend most of the day outside or in their vehicles as there are rarely indoor crating options at events. Please be prepared for you and your canine partner to deal with all of these varying environmental challenges. Handlers should familiarize themselves with potential regional risks and health concerns that may affect themselves or their dogs.  Handlers agree that they are entering this event at their own risk. 

Due to unforeseen conditions, such as weather or change in availability of areas at the location, the details below may need to be modified at the last minute.

:

The parking lot is a dirt lot with no shade available. You will be directed to park next to each other. 

RV Parking

There is space for RVs to park in the handlers parking area during the event day.

Running Vehicles or Generators in the parking lot

The parking is tight at this location and running your vehicles or generators in the parking lot is not allowed at this event.

Reactive Dog Parking

There will not be specific reactive dog parking at this event but we should be able to work with you to find a spot. 

Unentered Dogs

Unentered dogs must remain in the handler’s vehicle during the event day. There are not ample potty areas, and unentered dogs should not be allowed to “play”, exercise, or train on the event grounds.

Hotels
A list of area hotels is available here: https://www.bringfido.com/lodging/city/bozeman_mt_us/?intent=on

We encourage you to read hotel reviews prior to booking.

DOG INFORMATION

Dog Policies

● All dogs must always be on a 6’ leash when not searching. NO flexi-leashes while not participating in a search.

● Reactive and/or spatially challenged dogs should wear a red bandana (to be provided by the dog’s handler) to help signal others that the dog needs extra space from other dogs.

● Dogs will be toileted in designated areas and handlers must pick up and dispose of waste.

● Dogs and handlers must stay in designated areas to avoid contaminating search space, interrupting a search, or from viewing any part of the search.

● Handlers should expect to keep their dogs confined in a crate or vehicle when not searching. The logistics of an event typically do not allow for dogs to hang out on leash in between searches. Handlers should plan to provide their own shade using canopies or shade cloths. 

● Refer to location details (above) for information on unentered dogs. 

Females in Season

Females in season will be allowed to run wearing “pants” at the very end of the day after all other dogs have tested. Handlers with females in season should park and toilet their dogs away from the other dogs if the location logistics permit. Handlers must email the Carolyn Murray so plans can be made for the dog.

OTHER INFORMATION 

COVID-19 Information
Event attendees are required to adhere to the NACSW COVID-19 Event Guidelines and Rules

In addition to those guidelines the following changes and guidelines are in effect for this test due to COVID-19.
 

There are currently no travel or mask restrictions for this area.
.If there are any significant changes or updates after the draw period, handlers will be notified via email. Handlers are responsible for staying up to date on any jurisdictional requirements for their home location as well as the event location including any travel guidance. 

ADA Requests

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request accommodation(s), please email ADA@nacsw.net. Please include your name, ORT date, ORT host name, and your requested accommodation(s).

 Rules

Complete rules are available at www.NACSW.net. It is the responsibility of each handler to read and understand the current NACSW™ Rule book prior to participating in a NACSW event.

 Liability

By registering for the event, the handler hereby assumes all risks of, and responsibility for, accidents and/or damage to her/himself or to her/his property or to others or the property of others, resulting from the actions of her/his dog. The handler expressly agree that the NACSW, [The Canny Canine – Carolyn Murray] and its assignees or any other person, or persons, of said groups, shall not be held liable personally, or collectively, under any circumstances, for injury, and/or damage to her/himself, for loss, injury, or damage to property, whether due to uncontrolled dogs or negligence of any member of said groups, or any other cause, or causes. The handler also agrees to assume all financial liability that may be incurred by the NACSW, [The Canny Canine – Carolyn Murray] and its assignees or any other person, or persons, of said groupsdue to the actions of themselves or their dogs regardless of the cause.

Sportsmanship
All handlers and spectators are expected to follow the rules of the NACSW and demonstrate good sportsmanship. This includes making sure the hide placements are unknown to the handler prior to searching and kept secret from other handlers. Please do not discuss hide placement or any details of a dog's performance that may provide information or clues to other handlers or may be overheard.

Results
During the odor re-sets, the official results sheet will be brought out to the parking area for handlers to photo or review. We recommend you verify your results on the official results sheet and let your host or judge know if you have any questions regarding your results.
 

Spectators

Additional guests of handlers are welcome, however spectating opportunities may be limited. The testing area is tight. Please verify attendance policies with the Test Host Contact/Secretary before bringing or inviting anyone not volunteering, handling, or officiating.

Spectators are reminded that the hide placements must not be discussed, nor should they speak with any handlers about what they saw until after the event is complete.

No dogs will be allowed in the spectator area. No unentered dogs with spectators are allowed at the event. 

An adult accompanying a minor must be present during the searches.
Everyone at the site must sign the waiver provided by the host and comply with all event requirements. 

Handlers are not allowed to watch the searches at any time.

Videotaping and Photography

If the site allows public video to be taken, handlers may wear visible head or chest cameras to record their searches. You will not be allowed extra time at the start line to get your camera functioning. Please be sure it is ready to go prior to arriving at the search area. At ORTs, handlers may bring a spectator to video or photograph their searches. Videos may not be made public until completion of the event day 

At the host's discretion, a photographer and/or video service may be present during the event to offer photos and/or videos for sale to the handlers

Volunteering

Anyone who is not testing is welcome to volunteer. If you know of someone who would like to volunteer, please have them contact Carolyn Murray – carolyn@thecannycanine.com . Your time and effort are GREATLY appreciated!

Emergency Veterinary Hospital

The closest emergency veterinarian(s) to the event location:

[Pet Emergency Trauma Services]

[1103Reeves Road West, #B1

Bozeman, MT] 

[406-587-3996]

[Fridays 7 am – 12 am

Saturdays – Open 24 Hours

Sundays – Open 24 Hours

Mondays – Midnight to 7 am]

Questions
All Test related questions, contact [Carolyn Murray – carolyn@thecannycanine.com] 

Details regarding check-in time and briefing will be sent approximately 1 week before the ORT..

● Entries Must Be Made On The Attached Entry Form.

● No Entry Shall Be Made And No Entry Shall Be Accepted, Which Specifies Any Conditions As To Its Acceptance.  

● Owners Are Responsible For Errors In Making Out Entry Forms.

● Express Mail Entries Must Include Signature Permitting them to be left at the secretary’s address without the recipient's signature.

Entry Requirements

A Qualified Entry is one that meets all the following criteria:

1. Complete entry during the specified entry time frame.

2. The Handler is a NACSW member for the 2024-2025 membership year (8/1/24- 7/31/25).

3. The Dog is registered with the NACSW.

4. Dogs participating in an Odor Recognition Test (ORT) must be at least six months of age.

For Exhibit Only Dogs (FEO): Dogs running FEO are not eligible to receive titles. FEO results will not be included in the posted ORT results. If space remains after all qualified entries are accommodated on April 12, 2024,then we will offer spaces for those who wish to run a dog (FEO). Dogs may only run FEO in odors that they are not already registered for.

For information on how to register or become a member go to www.NACSW.net

Trial Eligibility and ORTs

The ORT Title must be earned at least 14 days before a trial opening date to be eligible for the first draw period.

All odors must be passed in order to earn the ORT title. It is not required that they all be passed at the same test.
 

Notification

Acknowledgement of entry acceptance/confirmation, will be made by email when entries are processed for those handlers that provide an email address. 

Basic Description of the Test

To successfully pass an ORT a dog must identify the location of the target odor and the handler must correctly call an “alert” within a three-minute time period. The Odor Recognition Test consists of a drill type exercise which requires 12 closed boxes typically set up in a pattern of two rows, spaced a minimum of 48” apart. The ORT is conducted on leash. Complete information can be obtained on the NACSW website. Handlers may test on all 3 odors at the same event.

All exhibitors should obtain and review a copy of the NACSW K9 NOSE WORK® RULE BOOK. You may get it from their website: www.NACSW.net 

No dog will be given more than one space in the same odor test at a single event.

~CANCELLATION POLICY~

The following cancellation policy applies: 

For cancellation of entries on or before 5pm Mountain time April 27th, 2024 – Full refund minus $10 processing fee. For cancellation of entries after 5 pm April 27th, 2024 – No Refunds will be issued.

All cancellations must be emailed to the Carolyn Murray – Carolyn@TheCannyCanine.com. 

Entry fees shall not be refunded if a dog or handler is absent, disqualified, or excused by the NACSW official or judge.

This cancellation and refund policy applies to handlers that must withdraw for any reason including but not limited to injury, illness, emergency, and personal or work-related reasons.

If the event cannot take place or be completed by reason of fire, civil disturbances, an Act of God, public emergency, or any other cause beyond the control of the event organizers, then the event host will make their best effort to provide partial refunds after recouping their expenses.

~LOCATION DETAILS~

ADA Site Specific Conditions

This event location is a fairgrounds. The parking lot is dirt pack and will quickly turn to mud in rainy conditions. The parking lot can be rough and uneven and also contain rocks and other debris commonly found at fairgrounds. You will be assigned parking around the barn and may need to walk to the barn or potty area.

Weather in Montana can be very unpredictable and severe. Attendees are encouraged to watch the weather and bring appropriate gear as needed for conditions. 

Due to unforeseen conditions, such as weather or change in availability of areas at the location, these conditions may be modified at the last minute.

Modeled after real-life detection work, NACSW events are held in many different locations, with a variety of terrain, under varying weather conditions. Dogs and handlers need to be able to safely negotiate a variety of surfaces, including, but not limited to, tile, linoleum, carpeting, gravel, asphalt, uneven surfaces, and slippery footing. Handlers should be prepared to deal with a variety of weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain and snow. Events frequently require covering extensive distances to get to and from the parking area to each of the search areas and generally require that this be done across natural, uneven surfaces. Handlers should be prepared for the physical demands and must be able to navigate the terrain with their dog accordingly. Handlers should expect to spend most of the day outside or in their vehicles as there are rarely indoor crating options at events. Please be prepared for you and your canine partner to deal with all of these varying environmental challenges. Handlers should familiarize themselves with potential regional risks and health concerns that may affect themselves or their dogs.  Handlers agree that they are entering this event at their own risk. 

Due to unforeseen conditions, such as weather or change in availability of areas at the location, the details below may need to be modified at the last minute.

Parking

The parking lot is dirt pack with no shade available. Parking may be tight.

RV Parking

There is space for RVs to park in the handlers parking area during the event day. To reserve a space, you will need to contact the Test Host Contact/Secretary after you receive confirmation that you have a space in the event. 

Overnight RV parking is available – you are required to contact the fairgrounds to book.

Running Vehicles or Generators in the parking lot

Running your vehicles or generators in the parking lot is allowed at this event as long as you have permission from your neighbors or are willing to park away from others.

Reactive Dog Parking

There will be reactive dog parking at this event for those who wish to park in this area, however the parking is tight and there will not be separate potty areas or warm up boxes. 

Unentered Dogs

Unentered dogs must remain in the handler’s vehicle during the event day.

Smoking

Smoking is not allowed on this event site, including the use of e-cigarettes

Hotels
A list of area hotels is available here: (insert link) or A list of area hotels and directions will be provided with entry confirmations.

~DOG INFORMATION~

Dog Policies

● All dogs must be on a 6’ leash at all times when not searching. NO flexi-leashes while not participating in a search.

● Reactive and/or spatially challenged dogs should wear a red bandana (to be provided by the dog’s handler) to help signal others that the dog needs extra space from other dogs.

● Dogs will be toileted in designated areas and handlers must pick-up and dispose of waste.

● Dogs and handlers must stay in designated areas to avoid contaminating search space, interrupting a search, or from viewing any part of the searching.

● Handlers should expect to keep their dogs confined in a crate or vehicle when not searching. The logistics of an event typically do not allow for dogs to hang out on leash in between searches. Handlers should plan to provide their own shade using canopies or shade cloths. 

● Refer to location details (above) for information on unentered dogs. 

Females in Season

Females in season will be allowed to run wearing “pants” at the very end of the day after all other dogs have tested. Handlers with females in season should park and toilet their dogs away from the other dogs if the location logistics permit. Handlers must email the Carolyn Murray – Carolyn@TheCannyCanine.com so plans can be made for the dog.

~OTHER INFORMATION~ 

COVID-19 Information
Event attendees are required to adhere to the NACSW COVID-19 Event Guidelines and Rules

In addition to those guidelines the following changes and guidelines are in effect for this test due to COVID-19.

There are currently no travel or mask restrictions for this area.
 

If there are any significant changes or updates after the draw period, handlers will be notified via email. Handlers are responsible for staying up to date on any jurisdictional requirements for their home location as well as the event location including any travel guidance. 

ADA Requests

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request accommodation(s), please email ADA@nacsw.net. Please include your name, ORT date, ORT host name, and your requested accommodation(s).

 Rules

Complete rules are available at www.NACSW.net. It is the responsibility of each handler to read and understand the current NACSW™ Rule book prior to participating in a NACSW event.

 Liability

By registering for the ORT Test, the handler hereby assumes all risks of, and responsibility for, accidents and/or damage to her/himself or to her/his property or to others, resulting from the actions of her/his dog. The handler expressly agree that the NACSW, Carolyn Murray, Carolyn E. Murray Inc, Gallatin County Fairgrounds and its assignees or any other person, or persons, of said groups, shall not be held liable personally, or collectively, under any circumstances, for injury, and/or damage to her/himself, for loss or injury to property, whether due to uncontrolled dogs or negligence of any member of said groups, or any other cause, or causes. The handler also agrees to assume all financial liability that may be incurred by the NACSW due to the actions of themselves or their dogs regardless of the cause.

Sportsmanship
All handlers and spectators are expected to follow the rules of the NACSW and demonstrate good sportsmanship. This includes making sure the hide placements are unknown to the handler prior to searching and kept secret from other handlers. Please do not discuss hide placement or any details of a dog's performance that may provide information or clues to other handlers or may be overheard.

Results
During the odor re-sets, the official results sheet will be brought out to the parking area for handlers to photo or review. We recommend you verify your results on the official results sheet and let your host or judge know if you have any questions regarding your results.
 

Spectators 

Additional guests of handlers are welcome, however spectating opportunities may be limited.

Please verify attendance policies with the Test Host Contact/Secretary before bringing or inviting anyone not volunteering, handling, or officiating.

Spectators are reminded that the hide placements must not be discussed nor should they speak with any handlers about what they saw until after the event is complete.

No dogs will be allowed in the spectator area. No unentered dogs with spectators are allowed at the event. 

An adult accompanying a minor must be present during the searches.
Everyone at the site must sign the waiver provided by the host and comply with all event requirements. 

Handlers are not allowed to watch the searches at any time.

Videotaping and Photography

If the site allows public video to be taken, handlers may wear visible head or chest cameras to record their searches. You will not be allowed extra time at the start line to get your camera functioning. Please be sure it is ready to go prior to arriving at the search area. At ORTs, handlers may bring a spectator to video or photograph their searches. Videos may not be made public until completion of the event day 

At the host's discretion, a photographer and/or video service may be present during the event to offer photos and/or videos for sale to the handlers. Details will be available at check in. 

Emergency Veterinary Hospital

The closest emergency veterinarian to the event location:

Pet Emergency Trauma Services (PETS)

1103 Reeves Road West #B1, Bozeman, MT

406-587-3996

Fridays Noon – Midnight

Saturday + Sunday – 24 hours

Mondays 2 pm - Midnight

Questions
All Test related questions, contact Carolyn Murray – Carolyn@TheCannyCanine.com

Details regarding check in time and briefing will be sent approximately 1 week before the ORT.