Australians now have a unique opportunity to bolster national security by fostering adorable puppies destined to become detector dogs with the Australian Border Force (ABF). Residents of Melbourne and Geelong are invited to participate in this heartwarming initiative, raising puppies from around nine weeks of age as part of the ABF’s Detector Dog Program.
Foster carers play a vital role in exposing these pups to various environments, individuals, and animals, facilitating their socialisation and development. The ABF covers all costs associated with caring for the puppies, including food, equipment, and veterinary care, and they also provide support during periods when foster carers are away.
Once fully trained, these detector dogs will be deployed in various settings such as vessels, aircraft, airports, seaports, cargo depots, and mail centres. They will be trained to detect illegal substances such as drugs, tobacco, firearms, explosives, and even cash, contributing significantly to national security efforts.
The ABF favours Labrador Retrievers for this program due to their strong work drive, reliable temperament, and adaptability. ABF Commander Bjorn Roberts praised foster carers as essential to the program, stating that the community’s support is fundamental in raising future detector dogs for both the ABF and its partner agencies. He emphasised the rewarding nature of this experience and assured that foster carers would receive comprehensive training and resources to aid in the puppies’ success.
No prior pet ownership experience is required to become a foster carer, as the ABF offers a round-the-clock support service for guidance. However, participants must support the puppies’ growth by taking them to vibrant environments like shopping malls, sports events, and playgrounds, ensuring they develop the necessary skills for their future roles. This initiative allows Australians to engage in a fulfilling experience while contributing to the safety of their communities.