THE Australian Border Force (ABF) has announced it is expanding its Detector Dog Program (DDP) foster carer network to Whittlesea.
Foster carers play a key role in ABF puppies lives aged from nine weeks of age when they provide a safe and caring home and regular exposure to popular environments, including shopping centres and community hubs.
Candidates do not need to have previous animal handling experience or worry about planned holidays or appointments since foster parents can access 24/7 support services.
The ABF covers dog food even a bowl, a collar, a lead, and more importantly veterinary expenses and medication, making their foster carer network the ideal opportunity to own a dog, albeit for a short time, in the current cost of living circumstances.
Foster carers are required to have a secure yard, be willing to socialise the puppy and provide regular opportunities for exercise, and more importantly attend three essential training sessions at a DDP facility throughout the year.
The ABF’s breeding program began in Melbourne in 1993, and since then, thousands of puppies have been trained as detector dogs that are also used by other government departments, agencies, and organisations.
ABF detector dogs are deployed across Australia to international airports, seaports, cargo depots, and mail centres where they are capable of screening large volumes of cargo, people, as well as narcotics, tobacco, firearms, explosives, and currency.
ABF Superintendent, Allister Keel, said that the expansion of the program is an exciting opportunity for animal lovers who can take pride in knowing they are playing a vital role in keeping the community safe.
“We’re proud to offer a greater number of Victorians the opportunity to become involved in this highly rewarding program,” Superintendent Keel said.
“Detector dog foster carers play a vital role in co-raising puppies who will one day work to protect our borders, and this expansion demonstrates our strong partnership with the community.”
To learn more visit abf.gov.au
