Thai canine unit protects Bangkok’s airport
There’s more than a new dozen sheriffs in town, and they may not be what you’d expect.
A Thai canine unit made up of 14 beagles patrolling Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport was recently unveiled by The Department of Livestock Development (DLD) to the public. The puppers are super cute, well-trained, and will definitely sniff your bags for stray treats – and also illicit drugs while on the job. With their debut, it’s no wonder that everyone took quick notice when the cute pups made headlines earlier this week.
So here’s the story that endeared Bangkok’s latest K9 unit to Thai netizens.
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Thai canine unit of beagles will keep Suvarnabhumi Airport safe
For context, the Thai canine unit first made headlines when they prevented 9KG of Mooyor – AKA Vietnamese sausages – from entering the country via a flight hailing from Hanoi, Vietnam on 23rd October.Â
Image credit: DLDThailand
The meat could potentially be vectors for meat-borne diseases like the African Swine Fever according to the DLD.
Image credit: DLDThailand
As it turns out, this isn’t the first time the well-trained beagle unit has foiled an illegal smuggling attempt. Back in early September, they successfully seized an even more staggering haul – 100 kilograms of pigeon meat coming in from Saudi Arabia.
Image credit: dldk9unit
So with Thailand opening up, we think the unit will be working harder than ever to ensure the safety of Thailand borders.
Work-life balance and welfare to be jealous of
Seeing all the good work the beagles do made us concerned about the health of the unit. But we’re told that the beagles are very well taken care of. They have a work-life balance that would make any Thai jealous.
Image credit: dldk9unit
The 14 beagles work four-hour shifts in pairs, and even get access to top notch healthcare.
Image credit: dldk9unit
Besides dedicated vets, gym perks are also part of the deal. The K9 unit even has personal physical trainers to keep them fit and in tip-top shape.
Screenshot: dldk9unit
Here are just a few shots of the team from 2017.
Image credit: dldk9unit, dldk9unit, dldk9unit, dldk9unit, dldk9unit
Clockwise from top left, these are Farang, Euro, Money, Almond, and Richy. If you’re keen to follow the team’s antics, check out their Facebook page here.
Bangkok’s sniffing guardians
So the next time you make a stop in Bangkok, don’t be surprised when a cute beagle sniffs your bag. These pups are well-trained, fit, and excited to protect Thailand’s shores. We hope you’ll feel a bit more at ease because our collective health will certainly be in good paws.
Cover images adapted from (Clockwise from Top Left): DLDThailand, dldk9unit
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