Fans of the show Customs under close surveillance know it well: dogs play an essential role in airports in detecting prohibited products. Thanks to their extraordinary flair, these 4-legged companions are capable of detecting prohibited substances or foods in a few seconds. At the airport Christchurchin New Zealanda new recruit has just joined the biosecurity service teams: NoahA German Shorthaired Pointer. However, nothing seemed to destin this dog for a career in detection…
Noah's new chance
As reported RNZthe story of Noah started in the streets of Christchurchwhere this sweet dog was found wandering last September. Taken into care by the city's animal management service, the pooch was never claimed despite searches carried out to find its owners.
It is in this context that the airport biosecurity service (MPI) contacted the shelter. “ They had seen it and wanted to come and do an evaluation to determine if it would be suitable for their work environment. », explained Lionel Bridgeragent of the animal management service.
After a first series of conclusive tests, Noah was taken to the airport to observe his behavior in the public. Here again, the dog convinced the teams. “ Everything went very well “, declared Lionel Bridgeremphasizing that Noah had quickly revealed his detection skills.
© Christchurch Airport
A great reconversion in biosecurity
After having brilliantly passed biosecurity tests, Noah was sent to Auckland to follow a 6-month specialized training. Now back at the airport Christchurchhe puts his exceptional flair at the service of agents by detecting prohibited food products in travelers' luggage.
It must be said that the New Zealand applies some of the strictest biosecurity rules in the world. At the airport, Noah is mainly trained to identify prohibited or undeclared food products, such as meat, fresh fruit, cheese, honey or even seeds. Foods that may seem innocuous, but which represent a significant risk to New Zealand's biodiversity and agriculture.
According to Lionel Bridgerthe race of Noah is particularly suited to this mission: German Shorthaired Pointers “ have a very keen sense of smell, they love to sniff everywhere, and this is what makes them so suitable for this role within the MPI. They are trained to detect food products and I believe he is able to recognize 18 or 19 different products so far “.
A real revenge for this dog once left to his own devices, who has become a valuable member of the airport biosecurity team.