Many of the dogs were rescued from animal shelters. Take Mac, for instance. The honey-blond golden retriever was left at a shelter because his owners were moving and didn't want to take him along. The dogs will work about eight hours a day, with breaks between flights, five days a week. Typically, their careers last about six years.
Handlers usually keep the dogs after they are retired.
The training is intense, as the handlers and dogs work in a variety of experiences in simulated airport and border environments. The dogs learn about 15 commands. Garcia said the training is hard work but fun. N.C. Half of the dogs that enter the program will earn the coveted green border-patrol leash. The other half, which flunk the initial five-week screening for gentle temperament and keen intelligence, will become pets.