TSA Explosives Detection Dog Gets Surprise Retirement Party

On April 19, an 8-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever was pleasantly surprised by his handlers with a shower of tennis balls. Messi, an explosives detection dog for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), received a surprise party after his last day of work. On Friday, his handlers celebrated the K-9 officer’s retirement from his sniffer role. In a press release, the TSA noted that the explosives detection dog is “ready to trade in his working vest for afternoons lounging on the sofa.”

TSA explosives detection dog is showered with tennis balls for retirement party

Friday, April 19, was Messi’s last day of work for the TSA. The pup is the longest-serving passenger screening K-9 at the TSA, a hardworking canine with a lovable personality. Messi has been on duty for six years and is finally retiring to enjoy unlimited pets and cuddles.

The Labrador Retriever was also announced as the dog of the month for February. He shot to fame after featuring in the annual TSA canine calendar. The pup enjoys airplane watching, which made him an excellent fit to be a K-9 officer role in the TSA. Messi was a dedicated worker, putting in his best efforts to sniff for any explosives at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

The TSA shared a snippet of Messi’s retirement party on X  — formerly known as Twitter — with the adorable pup being beyond excited to spot his favorite toy, tennis balls. The Labrador Retriever’s handler, Peter, removed his “Do Not Pet” patch during the surprise party. This signifies the dog is officially off duty and can accept all the pets he wants.

The retired K-9 officer will be adopted by his handler. So, he will enjoy the rest of his life as a beloved pet. Per TSA, Messi’s handler is also switching his role. Peter will train dogs from now on instead of serving as their handler.

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