FAQ'S

Mold can be deeply hidden with no visible signs, making it difficult to detect with the naked eye—or even with standard testing methods. That’s where a mold dog shines! Specially trained to detect mold using their incredible sense of smell—up to 100,000 times stronger than a human’s—they can pinpoint the presence of hidden mold with unmatched accuracy. Traditional methods of mold detection each have significant limitations. Air sampling often misses contamination because it only capture spores present in the air during a short sampling window. If mold is trapped behind walls or not actively releasing spores at that moment, results may show a false negative. Moisture meters detect current moisture but cannot identify mold itself. A surface may register as dry while still concealing mold growth from a past leak. Thermal imaging detects temperature variations that may suggest moisture but does not confirm mold presence. Without active moisture or clear temperature contrast, issues may go unnoticed. ERMI testing, while informative, cannot distinguish between an active mold issue and one that occurred in the past, and often leaves questions unanswered. In contrast, a trained mold detection dog offers a fast, non-invasive, and highly reliable way to locate hidden mold. Mold dogs can pinpoint active mold growth—even when other methods fail. This provides immediate, actionable results and helps you move quickly toward the real goal: identifying the source, fixing the moisture problem, and fully remediating the mold. For a confident and accurate start to the remediation process, mold detection dogs are one of the most effective tools available.

There are many reasons to choose a mold detection dog—but for brevity, here are our top five: Eliminates the Unnecessary: Keeps you from wasting precious time and money on testing and inspections that ultimately still come up short. Skip to the end of the story and let us just point to where the mold is! Time is Money: There is simply nothing else out there as reliable, quick, and efficient as a well-trained mold dog and handler team. The quicker you find and remove the mold, the less damage it can do to your property and your health. Mold infestations that go undetected due to procrastination or inconclusive inspections give it time to spread and do further damage. Less Waste - Less Mess: Our dogs’ pinpoint accuracy helps make next steps more precise, leading to less mess and waste from invasive inspections and/or unnecessary remediation. Reduce healthcare costs (mental and physical): Living or working in an environment with toxic mold and its byproducts affects everyone differently, but it leads to negative outcomes for all. From simple headaches and respiratory issues to dementia and cancers, what kind of health bills are you looking forward to in the future? Find and get rid of the mold, and live a more healthful rest of your life! Finds the needle in a haystack: The internet is full of experts and resources with opinions on mold detection and remediation. Very little of it is actually effective or accurate. Not only can our dogs find a moldy needle in a haystack, but there is incredible value in our staff's experience, connections, resources, and ability to direct you to reliable and effective information. Don't waste dozens—if not hundreds—of hours trying to decipher truth from fiction yourself... It gets a lot simpler when you boil it down to what works and what matters!

Mold in your indoor environment—regardless of its color—is not healthy. The term “black mold” typically refers to Stachybotrys chartarum, one of many mold species that can grow indoors and negatively affect human health. In reality, there are dozens of indoor mold species known to be harmful or toxic, and many of them aren’t black at all. While thousands of mold species exist naturally outdoors and are usually harmless in that setting, indoor molds that thrive in moisture and water-damaged conditions pose the greatest health risks. These molds can produce harmful mycotoxins and impact your health significantly—even when they are invisible or have no noticeable odor. Our dogs are specially trained to detect the species most commonly associated with indoor contamination and adverse health effects.

This is the most common story any good mold detection professional will hear... My spouse thinks I'm crazy because he or she isn't affected at all. There is simply too much to unpack here but the health side of toxic mold is fascinating. The long answer is complicated and nuanced, revolving around genetics (namely the HLA-DR gene mutation which our founders family has), other auto-immunity issues and previous environmental exposure. The short answer is everyone responds differently. Some people end up with debilitating symptoms that affect their breathing, mood, energy, mental capacity, etc. while others notice very little. It is also a very common story that the skeptical spouse or coworker ends up admitting they had no idea how much the mold was actually affecting them until they found it and had it removed. The list of potential symptoms from mold exposure are so vast that many people end up blaming their symptoms and treating them (albeit ineffectively) as something else. Many of us mold professionals would argue, if you are having this comically common discussion with your spouse, it is more likely mold than not!

Exposure to toxic mold—particularly species like Stachybotrys, Aspergillus, and Chaetomium—can trigger a wide range of health issues. The severity and type of symptoms can differ greatly from person to person, often impacting the respiratory, neurological, immune, skin, and even digestive systems. We highly recommend you consult with an experienced functional health doctor who is well-versed in mold detox and Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome. ➤ Respiratory and Sinus-Related Symptoms Chronic cough or sneezing Nosebleeds Sinus congestion or recurrent sinus infections Wheezing or difficulty breathing Frequent sore throat Aggravation of asthma or asthma-like symptoms Recurring pneumonia or bronchitis ➤ Neurological and Cognitive Symptoms Anxiety and depression Brain fog, trouble focusing or poor concentration Memory issues Frequent headaches or migraines Mood swings Dizziness or vertigo Sensitivity to light or sound Insomnia Numbness or tingling in extremities Worsening of PANS/PANDA- OCD, tics, anxiety, irritability, deterioration in school performance, emotional lability, hyperactivity ➤ Immune & Systemic: Persistent fatigue or chronic fatigue syndrome Frequent or prolonged illness Autoimmune flare-ups or development of new autoimmune issues Night sweats or low-grade fevers ➤ Skin and Eyes: Itchy, watery, or red eyes Unexplained skin rashes, hives, or irritation Sensitivity to light ➤ Gastrointestinal: Nausea or vomiting Diarrhea or irritable bowel-like symptoms Abdominal pain Changes in appetite ➤ Other Frequently Reported Symptoms Sensitivity to smells, chemicals, or light Changes in body temperature regulation Muscle or joint pain Hair loss Unexplained weight gain or loss Children and Mold: Increased Risk Children are especially sensitive to mold exposure due to their immature immune systems, smaller body size, and developing lungs and organs. Because their brains and bodies are still forming, mold exposure during early developmental stages can interfere with neurological development, behavior, learning, and immune function in ways that may have lasting effects. In some cases, parents report: Developmental delays Behavioral changes Sleep disturbances Breathing irregularities, especially at night

Mold detection dogs are elite scent detection canines—trained much like those used for bomb and narcotics detection. Their ability to locate hidden mold with pinpoint precision depends entirely on the quality and consistency of their training. That’s why we partnered with Bill Whitstine, the world-renowned Master Canine Trainer and originator of mold detection dog programs. The FBI, CIA and other intelligence/law enforcement agencies around the world rely on Mr. Whitstine and his training methods for the K9 training needed to protect millions of people every day. Our certified Handler/K9 team has completed over 1,000 hours of rigorous initial training and continues to train every single day to maintain—and continually sharpen—our accuracy. To further ensure unmatched reliability, we undergo independent third-party testing every quarter and are required to recertify annually. In addition to our canine specific training, Coltin (owner/handler) has completed thousands of additional hours of mold study/training and completes weekly continued mold education to help bring value to our clients. This relentless commitment to excellence is how we deliver the most precise mold detection available anywhere.

"How accurate is a mold dog" is a bit of a loaded question as so many variables come into play. In addition, certain environmental conditions come into play like odor availability, air flow, pressure, etc. All mold dogs are not equally capable. To maintain our certification we must maintain a minimum of 90% accuracy. Our daily working and training results however are typically much higher than that. While even the best mold dog does not have a perfect record, compared to the alternative testing methods mold dogs are exponentially more accurate and effective. One of the most commonly used but notoriously inaccurate tests, air sampling typically only picks up data from a few square feet and if completed when there is little to no disturbance will give false negatives. Even the most respected testing, like ERMI, which can give you a snapshot of historic presence of mold cannot tell you where it is. Our trained canines can pinpoint the exact source(s) of mold - even behind walls or under floors, in real-time. Simply put; if mold is present, our mold dog gives you by far the best chance of finding it. From there, it allows you to take the best next step.

Many people turn to ERMI (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) testing expecting clear answers, but it’s important to understand what this test can—and can’t—do. ERMIs analyze dust samples to estimate the presence of mold DNA, but they don’t identify where the mold is growing. This often leaves homeowners with concerning results but no clear direction. That’s where K9 mold detection becomes a valuable first step. Our trained dogs don’t just confirm that mold is present—they help locate the actual source, guiding the next steps of your remediation plan. It’s also worth noting that post-remediation ERMI scores can remain elevated if fine-particle cleaning hasn’t been performed thoroughly. Even trace amounts of settled mold fragments can influence results and lead to unnecessary alarm. For a more complete picture, we recommend beginning with source detection using a mold dog. Once the origin is found, an Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) can perform additional testing, and urinalysis and labs can help identify how mold exposure may be affecting you. Start with clarity. Use the dog to find the mold—then an IEP and detox specialist to fill in the rest.

It depends on what we find. If our mold dog identifies a significant source of mold, or if a client is exhibiting clear signs of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), we typically recommend involving a qualified Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP). An IEP plays a critical role—especially if you're hiring a remediation company. They design a remediation plan, help ensure the work is done properly, and protect you from being overcharged, underserviced, or misled into unsafe or ineffective practices. Our mold dog inspection is the first step in identifying the presence and location of mold. If needed, an IEP can then help interpret findings, assess environmental and health risks, and guide you through a safe, strategic remediation process.

Our inspection process is simple, thorough, and designed to give you answers with confidence. Pre-Inspection Prep: In order for us to give you the best results we need to ensure the space is clear of any unnecessary distraction or danger. Before our arrival we will give you simple instructions on how to prepare your home or property which equate to safe, clear access for the inspection team. Pre-Inspection Walk Through: Once we arrive, our handler will come in first without the mold dog to take a quick tour of the space. We like to get a feel for potential problems based on past experience as well as any known home history. This allows us to spend even more time being thorough on specific areas as needed. It also helps us ensure there are no potential dangers for the dog you may not have thought of before we bring them in. Mold Dog Inspection: This is the fun part to watch. The mold detection dog and handler team return to systematically inspect the area, room by room. While the handler ensures full coverage, it’s the dog’s incredible sense of smell that leads the way, detecting mold with unmatched precision. The handler carefully observes the mold dogs behavior for indications the dog has identified mold or may need more time. We will record our findings with notes and pictures along the way. Handler Investigation/Assessment: After we have gotten all of the info/data needed from our mold dog we will take them out of the property and the certified handler/trainer will come back into the space to continue inspecting themselves as needed. This often includes helping to determine the original source of water/moisture/mold. We occasionally use additional tools and meters but only to find sources of water as they are unreliable in detecting mold itself. Consult/Recommendations/Resources: After we have completed the mold inspection(s) and gathered all of the info we will stop to discuss our findings. Based on those findings and many different factors we will provide you with helpful resources and guidance on next steps, including connecting you with a reliable Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) to design a custom remediation strategy if needed. Final Report: Shortly after our on-site inspection we will send you a final report of our findings, as well as a list of our resources and recommendations for your records. Continued Support: Some clients choose to continue with us beyond the inspection. We’re happy to guide you through next steps, connecting you with trusted professionals for remediation, detox support, and healthcare if needed. We trust less than 5% of the providers out there to be effective so it helps to start with the right people. You're never alone in the process—we’re here to help from start to finish. ** Some clients request additional inspections on garages, outbuildings, barns, vehicles and boats which depending on the main structure is either included or done at a small additional fee. We do not take our mold dogs into attics, on top of unsafe roofs or any otherwise unsafe locations. Our handler/mold expert is happy to inspect any other areas of concern to the best of their ability.

It's not a requirement, but it's highly recommended that you're present during the inspection. After the inspection we will review our findings with you which is more difficult if you aren't there in person. Our services include a mold consultation and resources to help you with next steps.

The short answer is yes, but there are limitations. Our dogs are so well trained they can pick up on sometimes the smallest amount of mold/VOC odor, but there are times those odors don't make themselves available due to distance or concentration. If there is a trace amount of mold deep into the ductwork of a large HVAC system and the air is not moving enough to bring particles somewhere the dog could detect it, or you have 20 ft. loft ceilings even the best mold dog will be limited.

Depending on the size and severity of the affected area our recommendations will vary. Ultimately, however, the goal will always be the same. Get the mold out of your environment and make sure it doesn’t come back. Most surfaces can’t really be “cleaned” of mold so removal is typically the only effective path forward. Our job is to find it, if it exists, and direct you to the best next step. If the mold is extensive enough we typically connect you with a reliable Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) to assess the full scope of contamination and design a custom remediation plan for you. The IEP (and we, depending on location) can then recommend a few options for professional remediators we trust. After proper remediation we typically come back to verify all hazardous mold and its byproducts have been removed before calling the job complete.

We don’t perform mold remediation—and that’s by design. Our role is to provide unbiased, expert detection and consultation, with no financial ties to remediation companies. That means we have no incentive to exaggerate findings or upsell services. Unfortunately, because mold is so hard to find, misunderstood and also very dangerous, the industry has seen many cases where inspection and remediation are bundled in ways that can lead to inflated claims and unnecessary work. By staying independent, we ensure your results are honest, accurate, and in your best interest. Our goal is to empower you with clarity—not to profit from fear.

o Inspection Fees are based on multiple factors including Square Footage, Type of Structure, and Location. o Consulting Services are also based on multiple factors including; How many different needs (Remediation, Detoxing, Physical Healthcare, Emotional Support, etc.) as well as how heavily you’d like us to be involved. Some clients simply want a list of recommendations while others have us help communicate with remediation and healthcare professionals to ensure clarity and better outcomes. o Contact us and we’ll be happy to provide a custom quote based on your needs.

There are a few other mold dog services offered throughout the country right now and like anything, some are better than others. There are a few out there we have become fans of that seem like great people and really know what they are doing. We would never say we are better than everyone in the world but we are different. Between what we believe is a better training method, our handler's background in trades businesses (HVAC, Plumbing, Roofing), our expertise in mold and building science and our being professional but "real" we feel we have a great combination of knowledge, skills and capabilities that provides incredible value to everyone we work with. Our staff has an innate ability to calm the chaos without minimizing the importance of crucial things. With Alpha Dog, you really get the lifeline you prayed for.

Yes—100%. JoJo and Oakley aren’t just incredible working dogs; they’re beloved members of our family. Their health, happiness, and safety are our top priority, and we would never put them in harm’s way. Every inspection is carefully approached with their wellbeing in mind. While it is not good for your pet to live in a moldy environment their entire lives, Scientifically speaking, dogs have several unique biological traits that make them less sensitive to mold exposure than humans. Plus, we take extensive precautions. Before any inspection, the handler does a full walkthrough of the property to assess conditions. If anything seems questionable or unsafe, we won’t proceed with the canine portion of the inspection. Fortunately, their work is fast and highly efficient, which keeps any exposure extremely limited. Routine veterinary checkups, including blood work, and natural supplements help ensure our pups stay in peak health. And to them, this isn’t work—it’s play! They genuinely love what they do. They get more attention than any dog you’ve ever met. For them, it’s a fun game of scent-and-reward, combining their two favorite things: Hunting and Treats! 😊