US Embassy Helps Improve Conditions for National Security Dogs – Trinidad Tribune

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U.S. Ambassador Candace Bond greets a canine officer at the TT Customs and Excise Division (TTCED) kennel facility, Invaders Bay, Port of Spain, Sept. 12. The puppy is a German Shorthaired Pointer. – Photo courtesy of the U.S. Embassy

The United States government has made several contributions to modernize the country’s national security dog ​​units.

In the most recent donation, on September 12, the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), through the U.S. Embassy in Port of Spain, provided a police dog named Dea, as well as canine resources and launched an emergency medical plan for working dogs.

In a September 12 press release, the embassy said its donations will improve the working conditions of dogs in various local law enforcement agencies. The embassy continues to work with Trinidad and Tobago to improve safety and security and reduce illegal trafficking.

US Ambassador Candace Bond made the donation during a ceremony at the TT Customs and Excise Division (TTCED) kennel centre in Invaders Bay, Port of Spain.

She also surrendered Dea, a two-year-old German Shepherd-Belgian Malinois mix, to the police’s Transnational Organised Crime Unit.

Dea joins Thijs, who was donated by the US government earlier this year to strengthen the fight against illegal trade, the press release said.

Bond also announced the launch of an emergency medical care plan for dogs, in partnership with the Wishing for Wings Foundation, led by Newsday columnist Debbie Jacob, as part of the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.

U.S. Ambassador Candace Bond, center, with canine officers and their handlers at a handover ceremony Sept. 12 at the TT Customs and Excise Division (TTCED) kennel facility, Invaders Bay, Port of Spain. The puppy is a German Shorthaired Pointer. – Photo courtesy of the U.S. Embassy

The plan provides 24/7 veterinary care for working dogs with field injuries, non-routine medical care, and an additional care plan for preventative care needs.

Jacob told Newsday in a WhatsApp conversation on September 12: “Wishing for Wings is proud to be involved in this project.”

She said a network of emergency vets spread across TT is important.

“These dogs perform important crime-fighting activities, dangerous operations where they could be injured or put in life-threatening situations requiring immediate medical attention.

“Dog wardens need an emergency network of veterinarians to protect the government’s working dogs.”

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The embassy said Bond also handed over 80 first aid kits to the Customs and Excise, Police Service and TT Prisons Service dog handling teams, through a partnership with US pet supplier Chewy.

INL also donated training materials, grooming kits and operational equipment to improve agency capabilities. It also supported TT Customs in purchasing six dogs and modernized its facilities to meet U.S. standards.

The press release states that plans are in place to renovate the prison service’s kennels in the coming months through a cooperative cost-sharing program.

Bond said, “Our dogs are much more than working animals. They are essential partners in law enforcement, helping to detect narcotics, firearms and ammunition, accompanying search and rescue missions, and providing security patrols. At the core of the U.S. government’s working dog policy is a commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of animals.

“All of these efforts come together to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to the welfare of our loyal canine partners, as well as our dedication to international cooperation and compassionate care.

“Let us uphold the same dedication and respect for our canine team members that they show us every day. Their well-being and effectiveness reflect our core values ​​and our commitment to excellence in all of our endeavors.”