K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care - (Tier 2)

Course Duration

2 Days (16 Hours)
Duration may vary based on delivery format, field scenario complexity, and training environment.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

• Identify the three phases of K9 Tactical Combat Casualty Care and apply appropriate interventions within each phase.
• Perform hemorrhage control techniques using canine-appropriate tools and dressings.
• Demonstrate airway management and respiratory support techniques adapted to canine anatomy.
• Conduct trauma assessments and implement prioritized care under tactical constraints.
• Manage shock, hypothermia, and pain control in working canines.
• Execute tactical evacuation procedures, including patient movement and packaging for transport.
• Apply documentation and reporting requirements for MWD and operational K9 injuries.

Phases of Care Overview

• Care Under Fire

  Immediate lifesaving actions performed under active threat to control massive hemorrhage and maintain handler-canine effectiveness.

• Tactical Field Care

  Medical interventions provided once out of direct fire, focusing on treating life-threatening injuries and stabilizing the canine.

• Tactical Evacuation Care

  Ongoing monitoring and treatment during transport to a higher level of veterinary or medical support.

Core Medical Interventions

• Massive Hemorrhage Control – Direct pressure, hemostatic dressings, and K9-appropriate tourniquets (e.g., SWAT-T).

• Airway Management – Maintenance of airway patency using manual and mechanical techniques suited to canine anatomy.

• Breathing and Circulation Support – Recognition and management of thoracic injuries, shock, and hypothermia.

• Analgesia and Wound Management – Pain control, wound protection, and preparation for evacuation.

• Evacuation and Documentation – Packaging, litter use, and incident documentation procedures tailored for working dog operations.

• Pain Management – Assessment and application of field-appropriate analgesic strategies.

• Splinting and Burns – Stabilization of orthopedic injuries and treatment of burn-related trauma.

Evaluation & Certification

Participants will be evaluated through:

• Practical skills assessments during scenario-based exercises

• Knowledge checks covering K9 TCCC principles

• Performance evaluations in simulated tactical environments

Successful participants will receive a VAMS K9 TCCC Tier 2 Certificate of Completion, recognizing competency in pre-veterinary care for operational canines.

Optional Add-On Modules

• Advanced Airway and Circulatory Access (IV/IO)
• Prolonged Field Care for K9s
• Team-Based Tactical Integration
• Operational K9 Medical Kit Familiarization

COURSE COST $500.00

Very Limited setting for this course