Melissa Larsen is an instructor for the K9 Detection Unit at Boeing, an aerospace company. She has a strong eye for identifying shelter dogs with the ability to detect bombs. Larsen frequently visits the PAWS shelter in Lynwood in search of appropriate canines that could join their team.
Boeing’s training program has been in cooperation with the Seattle Police Department. Larsen is one of the trainers responsible for teaching the canines to detect gunpowder, explosive devices, and concealed weapons. She is very determined despite the difficulty involved in training these canines, given their varied temperaments and attitudes.
In addition to her patience, Larsen is able to train dogs who lack skills but are determined. She places greater emphasis on the dog’s energy, vitality, and adaptability to their handler and the lessons being taught.
Larsen uses a tennis ball to discover the right dog to train. She bounces the ball as she walks along the shelter to observe the dogs’ reactions. The dog is permitted to sniff at the ball. After that, they are then sent outdoors to locate the ball which had been hidden and they do this under Larsen’s supervision.
Boomer is one of the canines that captured the eye of Larsen. He used to move from shelter to shelter, unable to find the ideal furever home. His overwhelming excitement and energy made him the ideal addition to the Boeing K9 unit’s explosive detection program.
Boomer was able to detect and interpret more than 20,000 types of explosive chemicals after receiving training. He appreciates being on duty and loves the recognition that he gets for a job well done.
Boomer is happiest while working. He is willing to do everything that it takes to make the world a safer place for animals and humans through the work that he does.
Source: USA TODAY
