EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) —A rescue dog from the Animal Rescue League of El Paso has become the first shelter dog certified as a U.S. Border Patrol Critical Incident Response K9, according to Border Patrol officials.
Chloe, a two-and-a-half-year-old poodle and giant schnauzer mix, was selected through a partnership between the U.S. Border Patrol Canine Academy and the Animal Rescue League of El Paso.
The initiative allows shelter dogs to be considered for the agency’s support canine program.
After completing screenings and evaluations, Chloe underwent a five-week pre-training program with canine instructors before being paired with Border Patrol Agent Miguel Carrillo.
The team then completed an additional five weeks of training at the Border Patrol Canine Academy, earning certification after a total of 10 weeks.
Unlike traditional law enforcement K9s that are trained to detect narcotics or track suspects, Critical Incident Response K9s are trained to provide emotional support.
According to Border Patrol officials, the dogs assist agents, employees, and family members who may be experiencing stress, grief, anxiety, or other difficult circumstances.
Carrillo said he immediately connected with Chloe when they were first matched and has since watched her adapt to her new role.
“For me, it was love at first sight. The second we saw each other, I just knew that she was going to be the dog that I was going to be handling,” Carrilo said.
Animal Rescue League of El Paso Director Loretta Hyde said Chloe’s certification demonstrates the potential of shelter animals when they are given opportunities beyond adoption.
Border Patrol officials say Chloe is the first rescue dog to complete the program, but additional shelter dogs are already moving through training.
The agency hopes the partnership will continue providing qualified rescue dogs with opportunities to serve in support roles.
While Chloe began her journey in the El Paso area, Border Patrol officials said Critical Incident Response K9 teams can be deployed nationwide to support agents and their families.
Future assignments could take Chloe to locations across the country, including Louisiana.
The certification marks a milestone for both the Border Patrol’s support canine program and local animal rescue efforts, highlighting a new pathway for shelter dogs to serve in specialized roles.
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