EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14) — Two dogs with very different beginnings are getting a second chance to serve after graduating as U.S. Border Patrol Critical Incident Response K9s.
The Animal Rescue League of El Paso recently celebrated the graduation of Bentley and Hercules, two former shelter dogs who were selected to participate in the U.S. Border Patrol Canine Academy program.
The organization said the dogs’ journeys highlight the potential of shelter animals when given a second chance.
Bentley’s story began on the streets of Juárez.
He was brought to the Animal Rescue League of El Paso, where he received treatment for a medical issue before being selected by the Border Patrol Canine Academy for its K9 program.
Following his graduation, Bentley and his handler are headed to Washington, D.C., where they will work with U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations.
Bentley will provide support to staff and visitors at three Washington, D.C.-area airports as well as the agency’s home office.
Hercules also came to the Animal Rescue League in need of a second chance. According to the organization, he was rescued from a high-kill shelter before being selected for the Border Patrol K9 program.
After completing his training, Hercules graduated alongside his handler and is headed to Tucson, Arizona.
There, Hercules will work with U.S. Customs and Border Protection Field Operations at a border crossing and airport.
The Animal Rescue League said Bentley and Hercules are following in the footsteps of another shelter dog, Chloe, who also went through the program as a support dog.
The organization expressed its gratitude to the U.S. Border Canine Center El Paso, as well as the trainers and staff who recognized the potential of shelter dogs like Bentley and Hercules.
From being rescued from the streets of Juárez and a high-kill shelter to beginning careers alongside their handlers, the two dogs are now starting a new chapter.