For Release: Monday, June 27, 2005

DEC Announces Leashed Tracking Dog Handler Licensing Exam

Scheduled for August 19, 2005

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Acting Commissioner Denise M. Sheehan today announced that a written examination for individuals interested in obtaining a license to use leashed tracking dogs to find wounded or injured big game animals is scheduled for Friday, August 19, 2005.

DEC conducted experimental testing with a small group of leashed tracking dog handlers before the exam was first offered in 1990. There are now approximately 135 licensed handlers in the State.

The exam will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at designated DEC regional offices. Note: Applicants for this exam must register before August 1, 2005.

For information or to apply to take the exam, contact:

NYS Department of Environmental Conservation
Special Licenses Unit
625 Broadway
Albany, NY 12233-4752
(518) 402-8985

Applicants will be sent a letter of confirmation and a list of exam sites. There is a $25 non-refundable application fee. In addition, there is a $50 fee for a leashed tracking dog license that is valid for five years and payable at the same time as the application fee. In the event that an applicant does not pass the exam, the $50 will be refunded.

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