K9 Rev and his team, BORTAC, are standing by as we speak, ready to deploy to possibly the most brutal terrain in America, where some of the Nation's most dangerous criminals have signed up for the worst hide-and-seek game of their lives. Rev is a hardcore Patrol Canine who is always eager to introduce himself to the bad guys! For this week's Working Dog Wednesday, we're featuring this tough maligator and his handler, who proudly protect and serve our country!
What is Rev's job title and how long has he been part of the team?
I was lucky enough to get teamed with Rev in JAN 2012.
Rev is a Patrol Canine (Bite dog). Not a dual purpose dog. Unfortunately CBP only has single purpose canines (Narcotics/Human Detection, Article/explosive, Tracking/cadaver Search and Rescue, and Patrol (physical apprehension).
Describe a little about the day in the life of your guys' job.
I am part of a 12 man team, BORTAC (Border Patrol Tactical Unit), stationed in El Paso, TX. BORTAC is equivalent to a SWAT team. We are a standby team ready at a moment's notice to deploy. If we're not working, we are constantly training. We deploy to different areas not easily accessible due to the harsh terrain. We focus on troubled high risk areas where field patrol agents need assistance. We encounter Drug smugglers, scouts and RIP crews (Armed bandits), which operate in our country.
What is the most exciting and/or your favorite part?
Operating in different environments, seeing beautiful places. 2014 deployed to Pennsylvania for the Eric Frein manhunt. Assisted in tracking up in the Pocono Mountains. We also deployed to upstate New York for the two escapees. When hurricane Katrina made landfall in New Orleans we assisted as well. Provided security in the Northern Border for the 2010 Winter Olympics. We are constantly getting deployed to Southern Arizona and working the mountains.
What type of calls do you respond to?
Mostly High Risk. Manhunts, warrant service, assisting other LEO agencies (DEA,ICE,FBI, US Marshalls) State Police, County Sheriff and local city PDs. Any National Security operation as well.
Why are K9s so beneficial to BORTAC and the Police force?
Due to their nose detection capabilities and fight/ hunt drive. Such a valuable tool and smart creatures.
What qualities do you look for in a Patrol dog?
We look for several critical drives.
Fight drive - Any dog can bite equipment, not all dogs will fight. Hunt drive - we need them to hunt utilizing their nose.
Sound temperament drive - social and stable.
Protection drive - we need them to protect our handlers and team (Pack members).
Prey drive - we need them to chase.
Guard drive - guard territorial space from intruders.
What is the training involved?
Training is a 14 week course. All dogs are green dogs. Meaning no prior training.
What do you and Rev like to do on your down time?
Rev loves to sleep. When he's at home, he sleeps most of the day. He's like a robot getting charged and ready for what tomorrow will bring.
What do you love most about Rev?
What I love most about Rev is he lives to please me and looks for my approval and acknowledgement. He's very smart and social with people. I am truly blessed for having him. I spent more time with him than my family.
Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to answer our questions. We are so excited to get to learn and share K9 Rev's experiences! We appreciate Rev, yourself, and the entire BORTAC crew for your admirable dedication to keep America safe. Thank you for your service!
Follow Rev on Instagram @tronc_101 to see more awesome pictures!
Also, National K9 Veteran's Day is coming up March 13th to honor all military and working dogs for their service and sacrifice to our nation. This month we are featuring America's LEAs and military dogs. Please message us on Facebook or Instagram if you or someone you know would like to feature a special K9!
-Impact Dog Crates Crew
