Tasmania Bolsters Border Security with Highly Trained Detector Dogs

Last Updated on July 15, 2023 by Dogs Vets

Tasmania Bolsters Border Security with Highly Trained Detector Dogs

In a significant upgrade to Tasmania’s border security, 14 detector dogs join the forces.

Hobart, Tasmania — Tasmania’s border security service is ready to take a gigantic leap in safety measures, as it prepares to induct a squad of 14 new detector dogs, intensifying its defences against potential biosecurity threats.

This strategic move is an integral part of the newly implemented Detector Dog Unit Improvement Plan.

First Batch of Detector Dogs Complete Training

The first phase of this comprehensive plan has already begun to unfold.

The inaugural team of dogs has successfully accomplished its rigorous training at Launceston Airport, flagging off an essential epoch in safeguarding the state’s boundaries. This powerful canine team will be steadily bolstered as the year progresses.

By year-end, ten fresh graduates will have bolstered the ranks, with an additional four set to follow suit in the ensuing year.

The state-of-the-art training equips these diligent dogs with the ability to pinpoint a wide array of items that could potentially smuggle pests or diseases into Tasmania.

Role of Detector Dogs in Biosecurity

From seemingly innocent fruits and vegetables to diverse plant materials, honeycomb, honey, eggs, meat, and assorted seafood products, these furry guardians will have their noses tuned to every potential danger. They are the state’s new frontline against biosecurity threats.

Ryan Wilkinson, the Acting General Manager for Biosecurity Tasmania, expressed the importance of the new additions.

In his words, “With the increasing domestic threats, biosecurity threats and also international threats like foot and mouth disease, the dogs will play an absolutely crucial role in protecting Tasmania’s borders.”

Expanding the Scope of Detector Dogs

Wilkinson further explained how they aim to refine the dogs’ detection capabilities over time. The progressive imprinting techniques, a part of the training, introduce new odours to these dogs, steadily expanding their range of detection capabilities.

The roles of these dogs are not confined to an airport environment.

They will also be operating in mail centres and freight centres, and the plan includes their deployment at Spirit of Tasmania arrivals, ensuring the protection of Tasmania’s borders on all fronts.

As Tasmania takes this significant step in bolstering its border security, the world watches closely. The success of the Detector Dog Unit Improvement Plan could serve as a blueprint for similar strategies worldwide.

For more information about the Detector Dog Unit Improvement Plan and other Tasmania border security initiatives, visit Biosecurity Tasmania.

Originally reported by Pulse Hobart

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