Frequently Asked Questions
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A K9 mold inspection helps you find the source of mold — something most standard tests can’t do. While air, surface, and lab tests can confirm mold presence, type, and severity, they often can’t pinpoint where it’s coming from. A trained mold detection dog can locate hidden mold quickly and non-invasively, making them a valuable tool alongside other testing methods.
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Dogs are uniquely equipped to detect mold thanks to their extraordinary sense of smell and specialized anatomy. With up to 300 million olfactory receptors compared to a human’s 5 million, dogs can identify even the faintest scent molecules. Their unique breathing system allows them to inhale new odor molecules while exhaling through side slits, keeping scents from becoming diluted. A much larger portion of their brain is dedicated to analyzing smells, enabling them to differentiate tens of thousands of odors. Additional features, like a moist nose that captures scent particles and the vomeronasal organ that detects chemical signals, further sharpen their ability. The dog is detecting microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs), the gases that are produced as mold breaks down organic matter.
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The dogs are trained on 16 different genuses, which are the genuses that can be tested with air samples. Within each genus, there are thousands of types. The dogs will detect all the molds that are in that genus. We are continually imprinting and training our dogs on verified, lab tested mold from different sources to help build their internal database of scents.
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At On Point K9 Inspections, we use dogs from our own breeding program. Our dogs come from versatile hunting lines, so they’re born with the natural drive to search, a strong nose, and an eagerness to please. Because we’ve raised them from day one, we know their history, their temperament, and exactly how they’ve been socialized and trained. They’re also our family dogs, which means we know their individual style and how to read their subtle cues in the field. Reading those small changes in behavior and understanding their mindset is an art — and it’s what makes a successful detection team.
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Our dogs and handlers are trained and certified by Bill Whitstine at the Florida Canine Academy, a leader in scent detection training. Mold detection dogs are trained using the same proven methods as bomb and narcotics dogs — on real, lab-verified mold (never pseudo scents). Their training includes minor obedience, odor identification, search patterns, scent discrimination, various building environments, socialization, and vehicle acclimation.
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Yes — and no. Mold detection dogs work by following scent, and a trained handler interprets their behavior to pinpoint the source. If a ceiling leak has caused water to run down the walls, the dog will often alert at ground level where the moisture collects.
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We currently provide K9 mold inspections throughout Oklahoma and Wyoming, but we’re happy to travel out of state when needed. If you’re outside these areas, contact us — we’ll discuss your situation and arrange the best way to help.
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When we arrive, we start with a walkthrough of the property to discuss your concerns and any previous remediation. We’ll look for visible signs of water intrusion and ensure the space is safe for our dog and handler. During the inspection, our dog will search the property and we’ll mark any areas they alert to. Afterward, we’ll review the property with you and go over our findings in detail.
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No, we specialize exclusively in mold detection. Our certified K9 teams locate mold quickly and non-invasively, and we remain your primary contact throughout the process. If remediation or additional testing is needed, we’ll connect you with AirWell Indoor Environmental Professionals, a trusted partner who provides expert guidance and solutions tailored to your results.cription