The Australian Border Force (ABF) is urging Melbourne and greater Geelong residents to welcome a furry new addition into their households.
Aged from nine weeks of age, ABF puppies are co-raised by foster carers who assist with their development and provide opportunities for the puppies to socialise with new environments, people and animals.
The ABF covers associated costs including pet food, equipment, and veterinary expenses, and can look after puppies while foster carers travel or are away on holiday.
The ABF's Detector Dog Program (DDP) plays a vital role in protecting Australia's border, and involves a specialised breeding and development program to raise young puppies to a working dog level.
ABF detector dogs are deployed on vessels, aircraft and other premises as well as at Australian international airports, seaports, cargo depots and mail centres. The dogs screen large volumes of people and cargo, and are able to detect narcotics, tobacco, firearms, explosives, and currency.
The ABF DDP only works with Labrador Retrievers due to their high work drive, steady temperament, and their ability to adapt to challenging environments.
ABF Commander Bjorn Roberts said that foster carer involvement is reflective of the strong relationship between the ABF and the community.
"The maxim that 'it takes a village' certainly rings true with our community of foster carers who play an essential role in helping raise future detector dogs for the ABF or one of our many international and domestic partner agencies", Commander Roberts said.
"Participation in the program is a highly rewarding experience, and we actively work to ensure foster carers are fully equipped with all of the necessary tools and training to set these young pups up for future success".
Foster carer candidates do not need to have previous experience as a pet owner in order to foster an ABF puppy, and they are able to access a 24/7 support service for any assistance. However, they are required to assist with the puppy's development and socialisation, taking them out to busy environments such as shopping centres, sporting venues, and playgrounds.
Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer is urged to apply now through the online foster carer application. Further information is available at abf.gov.au/detectordogs
