WORCESTER, Mass. - It was all dog, all day. And very similar to a massive game of hide and seek.

“We have trainers from all over the region, from Portland to Rhode Island,” TSA K-9 supervisor, Richard Andrade said. “Basically, what we’ve done, we’ve planted stuff and we see how the dogs do and whether they can find it or not.”

Over 30 K-9’s from New England, with all unique skills, bounced around between six training exercises at Worcester Regional Airport. 

“Believe it or not, this is a real experience for them,” Andrade said. “We want to know what our dogs are capable of doing before something happens so we can send our best.” 

What You Need To Know

  • K-9's tested their skills at a training at Worcester Airport
  • More than 30 K-9's and their handlers attended the training
  • Dogs took turns snigging luggage, checking under containers and meeting some of their colleagues
  • Rewarding dogs after they've located a training agent is key 

The items they were looking for are classified information. K-9’s took turns sniffing luggage, checking under containers and, of course, meeting some of their colleagues.

These dogs work hard and they train year around. Play, food and affection keep K9’s like Murphy with the Killingly Police Department doing their job.

“He’s with me most of the day out on patrol,” Killingly Police Officer Mike Zmayefsai said. “We spend a lot of time together at home, so it’s a constant thing. 24/7.”

Rewarding dogs for their rough work, especially when they get it right, is key to their training. “A lot of toys, a lot of belly rubs, a lot of loves,” Zmayefsai said.

So, they can keep places like airports safe for everyone. “So far, he’s done pretty well,” Zmayefsai said. ​