The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is looking for families willing to adopt nine retired Narcotic Detection Dogs (NDDs) that served in anti-illegal drug operations across the country for years.
The retired K9s include five Belgian Malinois, three Jack Russell Terriers, and one Labrador, with an average age of 12 years.
They have recently completed their service after long deployments in various enforcement operations nationwide.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani Nerez said the dogs played a critical role in anti-drug campaigns, assisting in inspections at jail facilities, search-and-seizure operations, interdiction missions, and checkpoint duties in airports, seaports, and transport terminals.
“These K9s have been loyal partners in our mission against illegal drugs. Their courage, discipline, and dedication have saved countless lives and supported countless successful operations,” Nerez said.
He said the agency is prioritizing the welfare of the retired dogs, stressing that they deserve proper care after years of public service.
“We owe these dogs more than gratitude. We owe them a safe, peaceful, and loving forever home where they can enjoy their remaining years in comfort,” he added.
PDEA said the K9 Unit facility is no longer ideal for aging working dogs, prompting the agency to initiate an adoption program that will place them with qualified families capable of providing long-term care.
Profiles of the retired K9s will be published in print media and posted on the agency’s official Facebook page to reach potential adopters.
Interested applicants may submit requirements through email or in person at the PDEA K9 Unit facility in Sitio Lambakin, Barangay Sto. Cristo, City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.
Applicants will undergo document screening followed by interviews, either in person or online. Once qualified, they will be matched with a K9 before formal turnover arrangements are completed.
PDEA said it will also conduct post-adoption monitoring to ensure the continued welfare of the retired dogs in their new homes.
“Our responsibility does not end at turnover. We will continue to ensure that our hero dogs are safe, healthy, and well cared for in their new homes,” Nerez said.
Photo courtesy of PDEA Top Stories
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