Reflections on 10 years of using drug detection dogs in medium secure units

Abstract

PurposeThe use of drug detection (sniffer) dogs in psychiatric settings divides opinion among clinicians and service users alike. This paper provides an overview of the use of these dogs within a Medium Secure Unit (MSU). The approach described seeks to challenge preconceptions and suggests that dog searching should be one component of a wider therapeutic approach to working with patients with co‐existing mental health and substance misuse problems.Design/methodology/approachThe paper reflects on ten years' experience of using drug detection dogs in MSUs.FindingsA model is presented to promote a more therapeutic and recovery‐orientated use of dogs. This incorporates: using readily accessible dogs; carrying out proactive, rather than reactive, searches; operating in an informal and relaxed manner; being motivated by the information gained rather than the drugs found; responding differently to suppliers/dealers and users; and aiming to build therapeutic relationships with patients.Practical implicationsA scale is presented which categorises the severity of substance misuse within a service. Drug dogs can be used therapeutically on psychiatric wards to promote a drug‐free environment, but this practice should form part of a wider strategy to promote recovery. Investment in proactive searching may produce reductions in substance misuse.Originality/valueThe paper will be of value to clinicians and service/security managers involved in the management of substance misuse on inpatient wards (particularly MSUs) where there is a drive to integrate drug detection dogs within a recovery‐oriented framework.