Wordless Wednesday: Bomb Dog

While waiting to take the ferry over to Staten Island on Sunday to visit Sam and Marge, I made friends with this big, meaty-headed boy named Dash. He is one of many bomb-sniffing dogs that work every day to keep tourists and commuters safe.

I wonder if people feel less nervous to have Labs sniffing their luggage, rather than a German Shepherd or a Malinois? I love me some herding dog, as you know, but I suppose a good, solid retriever seems more friendly.

What do you think?

Dash wasn’t on duty yet, which I’m guessing is why his handler let me pet him and fuss on him. Dash is a real doll. He kept picking up his own leash handle and prancing around, trying to get me to play.

Dash didn’t actually sniff my backpack, another younger dog near the waiting area had that job.

That dog’s handler laughed, when I got excited to see the pup working.

“Come on over and check it out,” I told the pup.

His handler teased me: “You or the bag?”

So, we shared a giggle, and I thanked them for their hard work.

Let’s face it. My attempts at scent training haven’t gone so well, so I really, REALLY admire and respect these handlers and dogs because I know how hard it is to teach such specific scent discrimination.

Dash lives at home with his partner, which is terrific, not at some bomb dog kennel or anything. So, he is a working dog, but he also has a family and a normal life outside his work day.

I forgot to ask … I wonder if the dogs themselves get paid to help cover their costs and stuff. Does anyone know?

I’m guessing not, but they should because they work very hard.