Fun

America Is Running Out Of Bomb Sniffing Dogs Because Of The War On Terror

Written by: Dr. Katy Nelson

April 8, 2016

We’ve seen them walking around with their human handlers in airports or other transit hubs as they bob their heads from one piece of luggage to another. Or they‘re present at arenas or stadiums for crowded events. These are the “bomb dogs” trained to sniff out explosive threats in public places. And we’re quickly running out of them.

bomb1

According to Yahoo! News, there are not enough quality-trained bomb dogs to meet the high demand for them as terrorist threats in the U.S. and other parts of the world increase.

bomb2

Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the U.S. has dramatically enhanced their national security team. And this year alone the TSA budgeted more than $120 million to bring in about a thousand bomb sniffing dogs to U.S. transit hubs. However, the TSA is apparently short of 210 detection teams because of the low supply of bomb-sniffing dogs.

[bp_related_article]

Last month, a hearing on the effectiveness of canine intervention was held by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security. One of those who spoke to the committee was Penn Vet Working Dog Center executive Director Cynthia Otto.

Cynthia Otto

Otto explained that detection dogs were becoming an increasing part national security teams the world over, and that a high rate of retirement required constant replenishment of those K9s.

Bomb-Dogs-MSA-Canine-Training-Center-8.jpg__600x0_q85_upscale

You’d think that the powers-that-be could invent a bomb-detection device that decreases our reliance on dogs, but dogs beat out technology paws down!

Even the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a U.S. agency that develops technology for military, couldn’t invent something with a powerful sense of smell than a dog!

Port Of Los Angeles Police Patrol Waters Surrounding Port

Dogs are always praised for their sense of smell because there’s no machine or human that can match its powerful nose. It’s what make canines such special species.

Police dog

Ht to Yahoo!NEWS
Featured image via AP Photo/Julie Jacobson via Wavy
Sources: Yahoo, BarkPost, Penn Current, Department Of Homeland Security

Print Friendly, PDF & Email
Written by: Dr. Katy Nelson

April 8, 2016

Nutritionist-crafted food for your dog's breed or mix.

Recipes designed for dogs' individuality

LEARN MORE

INNOVATIVE DOG STUFF, EVERY MONTH.

A themed collection of BARK-designed toys, treats, and chews.

INNOVATIVE DOG STUFF, EVERY MONTH.

A themed collection of BARK-designed toys, treats, and chews.