Expanding the DPS K-9 Program: Highly Trained Dogs Enhancing Law Enforcement in Texas
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is taking their K-9 training program to new heights as they deploy highly trained dogs to assist with drug interdiction, explosive detection, and tracking missions across the state. Lt. Boyd Lamb, a 19-year veteran of DPS and a member of the K-9 program for 12 years, provided an exclusive tour of their training facility in Florence, Texas.
Transforming Untrained Dogs into Specialized Law Enforcement Assets
At the training facility, Lt. Lamb revealed the impressive process of turning untrained dogs into efficient working machines. Starting with a “green dog” that knows nothing, the program meticulously trains the canines to excel in various roles such as drug detection, explosive detection, and tracking. The training program is designed to expose the dogs to real-life scenarios, including controlled chaos situations like helicopter deployments, ensuring they can perform effectively without shutting down.
Critical Role in Drug Interdiction and Border Security
DPS currently operates 74 K-9 teams across Texas, with 51 dedicated to drug detection, nine to explosive detection, and approximately 13 to tracking. These teams often work as part of Operation Lone Star, a state initiative aimed at curbing drug smuggling and unauthorized border crossings. Tracking dogs, in particular, play a vital role in apprehending individuals attempting to evade law enforcement at the border.
Real-Life Success: From Fugitive Apprehension to Search-and-Rescue
The effectiveness of the K-9 program was showcased through the experience of K-9 handler Landon Ravun stationed in Del Rio. Body camera footage captured Ravun and his K-9 partner, Bona, successfully tracking down a fugitive wanted for murder. Ravun emphasized the importance of their work, stating, “Getting to go behind her and watch the capabilities and the amazing things she can do is incredible.”
The DPS K-9 program extends beyond drug interdiction and border enforcement. These highly trained dogs have also played a crucial role in search-and-rescue missions. Lt. Lamb recalled an incident where one of their tracking dogs located a special needs man who had gone missing in Los Naples Park. The man had been missing for several hours and was severely dehydrated. Thanks to the K-9 team’s efforts, he was safely reunited with his family.
Intensive Training for Handlers and Dogs
The training program for handlers and their dogs is rigorous. Each pair undergoes nine weeks of joint instruction after the dog completes a pre-training phase that can last between six and 15 weeks. Lt. Lamb stressed the importance of the handler-dog relationship, emphasizing that these dogs become part of the handler’s family. The bond formed between them is so strong that when the dog retires or passes away, it is like losing a beloved family member.
Expanding K-9 Units for Enhanced Law Enforcement
With ongoing expansion efforts, DPS aims to further integrate K-9 units into operations across Texas. By providing law enforcement with highly trained dogs, the DPS K-9 program ensures that they are well-equipped for any mission that comes their way. The dedication and expertise of the K-9 teams serve as a valuable asset in combating crime, protecting the border, and saving lives.
