From Niesha Lofing:
Well I'll be doggone - the first member of the Sacramento County Sheriff's Department's Canine Explosive Detection Team at the Sacramento International Airport retired Wednesday.
Runway, left, who along with his partner Dep. Larry Berwick, began her service at the airport Sept. 10, 2001, said Karen Doron, spokeswoman for the Sacramento County Airport System.
Runway's name was chosen from entries in an employee campaign held at the airport.
A retirement ceremony for Runway was held at Wednesday at the airport. She also performed her last explosive detection training exercise at that time.
Runway is planning to spend her retirement years as Berwick's family dog, Doron said.
There are six dogs assigned to the sheriff's Canine Explosive Detection Team at the airport, she said.
Explosive Canine Detection Teams are tasked with daily inspections of the airport's cargo and baggage areas, terminals, parking garages, passenger airlines and facilities, as well as are involved in passenger screenings and checking unattended vehicles.
They also are used for VIP and dignitary protection, supporting U.S. Customs efforts and during checkpoint screenings.
K-9 teams undergo daily training and annual certification process through the Transportation Security Administration's Canine Program.
Dog gone - but not forgotten.
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