EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014A 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The initiative allows shelter dogs to be considered for the agency’s support canine program.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The team then completed an additional five weeks of training at the Border Patrol Canine Academy, earning certification after a total of 10 weeks.<\/p>\n
Unlike traditional law enforcement K9s that are trained to detect narcotics or track suspects, Critical Incident Response K9s are trained to provide emotional support.<\/p>\n
According to Border Patrol officials, the dogs assist agents, employees, and family members who may be experiencing stress, grief, anxiety, or other difficult circumstances.<\/p>\n
Carrillo said he immediately connected with Chloe when they were first matched and has since watched her adapt to her new role.<\/p>\n
“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. <\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Border Patrol officials say Chloe is the first rescue dog to complete the program, but additional shelter dogs are already moving through training.<\/p>\n
The agency hopes the partnership will continue providing qualified rescue dogs with opportunities to serve in support roles.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Future assignments could take Chloe to locations across the country, including Louisiana.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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