Chance to adopt a customs and border protection puppy

Ms Macklin said families in Banyule could apply to help raise Labrador puppies that are training to become Customs and Border Protection detector dogs.

 

“With a large number of pups expected to be born within the next three months, Customs and Border Protection is seeking individuals or families to be part of the Customs and Border Protection Puppy Foster Carer Scheme,” Ms Macklin said.

 

Customs and Border Protection will provide all food, veterinary needs, equipment, expert advice as well as canine development training. In return, volunteer carers provide a safe home for the pup while socialising them to the sights, sounds and smells of the suburban environment.

Foster carers host a pup from about eight weeks until 12 months of age. The dogs are then assigned to work as a detector dog within Customs and Border Protection or another agency.

 

Ms Macklin said the puppy foster carer program was an important but fun way for residents to work with the federal government to help protect Australia’s borders.

 

“Being a puppy foster carer is a really rewarding way for residents to help protect our borders, while enjoying the fun of raising a Labrador puppy,” Ms Macklin said.

 

“Customs and Border Protection detector dogs play a critical role in protecting Australia’s borders, especially in the detection of firearms, explosives, narcotics and drugs.

“But before these puppies can protect our borders they need a loving home.”

For more information on how you can become a puppy foster carer visit the Customs and Border Protection website at www.customs.gov.au or call 1800 664 106.

 

 

 

·       Labrador puppies bred by Customs and Border Protection are placed in a home from the age of about eight weeks until about 12 months of age, when they are returned to Customs and Border Protection for training.

 

·       Customs and Border Protection will look after all food and veterinary costs associated with raising the pup. As a foster carer, you will take care of the pup and ensure it is regularly walked and socialised so that it is suitable for training.

 

 

Do you meet the following criteria to become a foster carer?

·       Safe and secure yard at least 10m by 5m

·       Willing to socialise the pup with at least one or two outings each week to local schools, playgrounds, shopping centres, etc

·       Be able to walk the dog at least once a day

·       Have a car to transport the pup if required.

 

All people living in the Melbourne area are encouraged to apply regardless of their background or living circumstances (married with children or living on their own).

Persons with dogs of their own are also welcome to apply.