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Friday, March 29, 2024

TSA Wants Your Vote for National Dog Day

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) wants the public’s help to determine its cutest K9 in honor of National Dog Day on August 26. The TSA Cutest K9 contest features four “top dog” finalists. The winner will be announced on National Dog Day on TSA’s social media. We’ll also report back here.

TSA’s cutest K9 candidates are “Muk” from Austin–Bergstrom International Airport; “Figor” from Chicago Midway International Airport, “Alfie” from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport; and “Donna” from St. Louis Lambert International Airport. The K9s were nominated by TSA handlers from airports around the country.

The teams are most often seen at an airport working in the security checkpoint, assisting with the efficiency and effectiveness of TSA’s screening operations. Because explosives are known to be the greatest threat to the aviation system, these highly-trained canines are an effective tool to deter and detect the introduction of explosive materials into the transportation system.

TSA currently has more than 1,000 explosives detection canine teams deployed nationwide tasked with screening passengers, cargo, mass-transit and maritime systems and supporting other security missions. Each dog is specially trained to detect the scent of explosive materials. They are paired with TSA handlers and use their keen sense of smell when working in and around travelers and their belongings in busy transportation environments, including airports.

While TSA canines are sociable, they are working dogs and they should not be petted or fed by anyone except their handlers.

Vote for the cutest TSA K9 at TSA’s Instagram

Update: And the winner is… tennis ball-loving Alfie from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport!

TSA Wants Your Vote for National Dog Day Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Today
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.
Homeland Security Today
Homeland Security Todayhttp://www.hstoday.us
The Government Technology & Services Coalition's Homeland Security Today (HSToday) is the premier news and information resource for the homeland security community, dedicated to elevating the discussions and insights that can support a safe and secure nation. A non-profit magazine and media platform, HSToday provides readers with the whole story, placing facts and comments in context to inform debate and drive realistic solutions to some of the nation’s most vexing security challenges.

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