top of page
TRACEv2white[32]_edited.png
TRACE INSTITUTE FOR WORKING ANIMALS
Enhancing the welfare and performance of working animals through
Training, Research, and Applied Cognitive Ethology
IMG_0063.jpeg

At the Training, Research, and Applied Cognitive Ethology Institute for Working Animals, we are devoted to improving the lives of working animals through rigorous study and active training programs.

 

Our focus lies in animal behavior and cognition, aiming to harness scientific knowledge to enhance performance and inform humane practices.

Our Programs
3A6F4617-D4E6-4FE4-8105-9168B1C4A31A_1_105_c.jpeg

In person and virtual handler and dog education

Cost should not be a barrier to education for handlers.  TRACE provides evidence-based, high-quality education opportunities to handlers.

Education

Screenshot 2026-05-08 at 2.13_edited.jpg

Peer-reviewed literature and other resources

Reading, reviewing, and trying to make sense of the available literature should not stop you from benefiting from information.

Education

graph pic_edited_edited.png

Answering questions from the field.

We are scientists and practitioners, and we support research that deepens our knowledge of detection dog teams.  

Research

1751BE42-4B6B-4B06-88DB-9F0866B95397_1_105_c.jpeg

From unwanted to working.

So many dogs have so much undiscovered potential. We work to find those dogs and give them the best foundation in training.

Preparing Dogs

TRACE President and founder, Dr. Sally Dickinson, explains why she is so passionate about working dog welfare during the Virginia Tech Faculty Nutshell Talks.

Contact us

Inquiry type

Stay in touch!

  • Facebook
  • Instagram

 

© 2025 by Training, Research, and Applied Cognitive Ethology Institute for Working Animals.

 

bottom of page