There are 32 dogs in all of Chile, but due to their effectiveness and enthusiasm, there seem to be many more. This is the canine force of the National Customs Service, vital support in the figures of seizures of all kinds, but mainly of drugs during 2018.
The work of canine teams is relevant in the detection of illicit goods at border control points, such as drugs, cigarettes and medicines. During 2018, they participated in 455 detections, which translates into the seizure of 695 kilos of illicit substances, representing 18.87% of the total of 3,6 tons, consisting mainly of marijuana, cocaine and cocaine base, and 183.746 units of synthetic drugs.
Strengthening the presence and action of its detection dogs was an important effort for Chilean Customs in the following.
Safety shoes were purchased to protect the bearings and legs. of dogs from extreme temperatures and exposure to chemicals. This means that the dog will be protected from very hot or icy floors, as well as from truck debris or other debris that it may encounter during an inspection.
This acquisition will benefit all dogs that work in ports, airports and border crossings. from Chile. “They face different scenarios, ranging from the extreme desert of Quillagua to the rain of Samoré or the snow of Punta Arenas and Libertadores. Because of this, the acquisition of safety footwear that will provide them protection from both the weather and chemical products was planned,” said the head of the National Customs Drugs Department, Patricio González.
LThe delivery included training for canine teams in all regional offices of the country and a special review by the institutional veterinarian, given that although the dogs have check-ups in local clinics, from time to time they have access to special check-ups and evaluation of their conditions.
Reassignments and layoffs in 2018
Chilean Customs conducted courses that allowed the incorporation of 2 new pairsto the Customs of Osorno and Coquimbo (Center). In addition, pairs - guide and dog - were reassigned to the customs of Arica, Iquique, Valparaíso, San Antonio, Punta Arenas and Coyhaique. These reassignments involved the incorporation of new dogs, all brothers of approximately 1 year.
Great collaborators said goodbye throughout 2018 when 6 of the dogs retired who served as guides and were the protagonists of historic discoveries. Eddie, Hans, Luke, Kaela, Brucce and Yulio received the gratitude of their companions and went on to live out their retirement, in most cases, with the families of their guides.
Three dogs joined the Los Andes Customs (south) which will become new detectors and will collaborate in the genetic improvement of the new litters.
Training and maternity center 2019
The Customs work with dogs is part of the inauguration of the Canine Training and Maternity Center in 2019 for the reproduction, breeding and training of dogs, as well as the standardisation, training and improvement of dog handlers.
The project represents an investment of $650.000.000 and is funded by the Illicit Traffic Control Program (PCTI) of the National Customs Service of Chile.
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