Quarry Cage Construction Guidelines

WidthDepthHeight
Minimum:7.25″ / 18.5 cm6.00″ / 15.25 cm7.75″ / 19.5 cm
Maxmium:9.00″ / 30 xm9.00″ / 30 xm9.00″ / 30 xm

Quarry cages used in NASDA events must prioritize the safety and well-being of both the live quarry and the dogs. The following specifications outline the construction requirements for compliant quarry cages:

Size and Interior Requirements

  • Occupancy:
    • Cages must be large enough to comfortably house two gerbils or one adult rat.
    • The cage should not allow excessive space that would permit the quarry to be jostled substantially during the course of work.

Materials and Construction

  1. Cage Body:
    • Constructed from heavy-duty 3/4-inch plywood for durability and safety.
  2. Wire Layers:
    • Outer Layer:
      • Made of up to 1/2-inch heavy-gauge hardware cloth, securely fastened with heavy staples.
      • Corners of the outer layer should be reinforced with L brackets secured with screws.
    • Inner Layer:
      • Made of 1/4-inch hardware cloth, fastened with staples or similar secure methods.
      • Positioned inside the cage with a gap equal to the width of the plywood between the two layers, ensuring safety for both the live quarry and the dogs.
  3. Solid Construction:
    • The box must be solidly constructed on all sides except one, which will include the door.

Door Requirements

  • Latch System:
    • The door must be secured with a latch that:
      • Is of sufficient weight to remain closed during vigorous movement.
      • Is designed to avoid creating a tangle or safety hazard for the dog.
  • Handles:
    • Handles should not be used to prevent potential risks during the trial. Clubs have until March 31, 2025 to remove handles from existing quarry cages.

Safety and Practical Considerations

  • Durability:
    • Cages must withstand vigorous movement without compromising the safety of the live quarry or allowing unintended access by the dog.
  • Dog Safety:
    • Ensure no sharp edges or protruding hardware that could injure a dog during the search.

Painting the Exterior

  • Customization:
    • The exterior of the cage may be painted or left natural to best match the environment where it will be used.
    • Painting the exterior can help camouflage the cage for a more authentic and natural appearance during trials.