The Australian Border Force (ABF) has announced it is expanding its Detector Dog Program (DDP) foster carer network to additional regional locations throughout Victoria.
Following the success of the program in Greater Melbourne and Geelong, eligibility will now be expanded to eligible households in Ballarat and Whittlesea.
ABF puppies, aged from nine weeks of age, are co-raised by foster carers who play a key role in their development by providing a safe and caring home, and providing exposure to a range of different environments, including shopping centres and community hubs.
Foster carer candidates looking to welcome a puppy into their households do not need to have previous experience looking after animals, and are able to access 24/7 support services.
The ABF covers dog food, equipment, veterinary expenses, and are able to look after puppies if foster carers need to head away from home or have holidays planned.
Foster carers are required to have a secure yard, be willing to socialise the puppy with people and animals, provide regular opportunities for exercise, and attend the DDP facility on three occasions throughout the year for training sessions.
The DDP features a specialised breeding, development, and training program, in order to raise young puppies to prepare them for a career as a working dog.
The ABF's breeding program began in Melbourne in 1993, and since then, has developed thousands of puppies to be trained as detector dogs that are also used by other government departments, agencies, and organisations.
ABF detector dogs are deployed across Australia to international airports, seaports, cargo depots, and mail centres. They are capable of screening large volumes of cargo, people, as well as narcotics, tobacco, firearms, explosives, and currency.
ABF Superintendent, Allister Keel, said that the expansion of the program is an exciting opportunity for animal lovers who can take pride in knowing they are playing a vital role in keeping the community safe.
"We're proud to offer a greater number of Victorians the opportunity to become involved in this highly rewarding program," Superintendent Keel said.
"Detector dog foster carers play a vital role in co-raising puppies who will one day work to protect our borders, and this expansion demonstrates our strong partnership with the community."
