Sniffer Dogs Seek New Owners after Retirement

SEOUL, July 25 (Korea Bizwire) – Airports and ports across Korea are looking for new owners to adopt retired sniffer dogs, but their old age is hampering the search for new homes.

According to the Korea Customs Service (KCS), it first posted a public notice for the sale of 13 retired sniffer dogs on May 24, with prices ranging from 575,000 won ($505) to 900,000 won ($791). After failing to find suitable guardians, the KCS made another attempt in June, but to no avail. The service finally decided to change its policy and give away the dogs for free, and is currently evaluating applications from potential guardians. 

The average age of sniffing dogs ranges from 10 to 15 years, and it isn’t until they spend over 10 years in active duty that they’re due to retire.

English Springer Spaniel ‘Brin’ served for 10 years at Incheon International Airport.

“I just wish these retiring dogs could be adopted to friendly homes and spend their final years in a comfortable environment with love and care,” said a veterinarian at a dog training center. 

The evaluation and the adoption process is rather complicated. The new guardians are not allowed to adopt the dogs other than as regular pets or for training purposes, and the dogs cannot be traded or given away to a third party. The KCS will also inspect new homes to make sure they provide a suitable environment.

“We’re seeking different ways to promote our efforts so that these dogs, who dedicated their lives to the country, can spend their remaining lifetime in a pleasant environment,” said the KCS. “Even if they fail to find new homes, we’ll be protecting and caring for these dogs at our training center.”

Woopy, a Labrador Retriever, served for seven years at Gimhae Airport.

Image Credit: Yonhap / photonews@koreabizwire.com