One of the first and most effective lines of defense against the bad guys is dogs – rigorously trained, lovingly handled canines. For all the high-tech (and sometimes controversial) gear TSA deploys, dogs never go out of date.
A dozen canine teams are assigned to patrol Houston’s Bush Intercontinental, Hobby and Ellington airports – and a pair of those perceptive pooches is the province of Doug and Maryann Hrncir.
The Hrncir’s are officers with the Houston Police Department’s K-9 Handler Division. They’ve been through the Transportation Security Administration’s National Explosive Detection Canine Team Program, where both excelled. Their classmates at the course at Lackland Air Force Base chose the Hrncir’s as class leaders. Doug was voted Top Dog in the 10-week course.
That course is comprehensive. It teaches officers canine care, first aid, as well as explosives awareness and safety. Then it shows the K-9 teams how to work out in the field, in an ever-changing environment populated by passengers.
In addition to TSA, the United States Secret Service makes frequent use of the teams. “That’s part fo the appeal in working for this division,” says Doug. “You’re constantly exposed to new scenarios and situations.” Nothing is taken for granted. The tactics would-be terrorists employ are changing constantly.
Both husband and wife downplay any competition. Doug works with his dog, EEnvy, while Maryann patrols Bush Intercontinental with partner PPaulette. IAH is a major hub for Continental Airlines. Close-in Hobby Airport is a prime focus city for discount airline Southwest.
Story by Jerry Chandler
(Image: isafmedia)
