Sniffing out contraband and well-deserved pats, the Australian Border Force (ABF) Detector Dog Program visited a Navy base to expose the dogs to new environments.
On October 15, the four detector dogs, Rocky, Lupin, Magic, Perth and their handlers, had a busy morning of training by finding contraband planted in multiple locations in HMAS Waterhen.
Starting with the Waterhen mine warfare workshop, the dogs were taken one at a time to investigate and find the planted contraband. Each dog had their own unique method; some fast, some more considered.
Upon finding the contraband, all would sit, except for Perth, who preferred to stand and stare.
If they found the correct location, they earnt a rolled-up towel to play with - a common reward for ABF detector dogs.
After the mine warfare workshop, the dogs and their handlers made their way to two pre-prepared stebercraft, one clean and one contaminated.
This provided the dogs an opportunity to search negative and positive locations - it was also the first time searching and boarding a boat for a few of the dogs, who showed a little trepidation at first, but quickly found their sea legs.
ABF Detector Dog Unit Supervisor Clae Jenkin said: "Training opportunities such as this are fantastic for building stakeholder relationships, but also improving the skill sets of both the dogs and handlers."
"We welcome collaborative activities like this with the Royal Australian Navy to further our K9's program and diversity," he added.
After a successful morning of training, Rocky, Lupin and their handlers went to the Waterhen Fleet Support Unit for a meet and greet, as well as further exposure to the rare environment that a Navy Fleet Support Unit workshop can provide.
Petty Officer Jeffery Hogan was fond of the furry visitors.
"Opportunities like this are not only great for the ABF to train, but are also an amazing opportunity to boost morale on what would otherwise be a normal working day in the RAN," he said.
"This is our second time hosting the dog unit and we look forward to hosting them again in the future."
To finish the day, Magic and Perth were taken to the ship's offices to meet with the commanding officer and other personnel, receiving more pats and hugs than they knew what to do with.
