Life With Dogs is reader-supported. We may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page.
They work as hard as any other member of the United States Secret Service, with no concern for whether they are protecting a Democrat or Republican, but rather wholly focused on their duties which are often out of the sight lines of the general public…at least as far as the public knows. Thousands of visitors stream through White House or walk along Pennsylvania Avenue and never realize these four-legged officers are on the job.
Maria Goodavage has offered up some rare and equally fascinating information about the amazing animals that are instrumental when it comes to the safety and security of our President and others, such as visiting heads of state, whom the Secret Service is tasked to protect. Newly released, Secret Service Dogs provides an inside look at the men and the dogs who make up these teams who are nothing short of remarkable.
The variety of jobs in which these handler/canine teams is also eye-opening, each with a specialty critical to national security. Whether working on bomb detection or appearing as “Friendly Dogs,” each role requires the highest level of both training and dedication to their specific objective.
In fact, much of the information shared has never been told before, as by very definition of their positions, their experiences are not often learned. An exception to that was an event that occurred at the White House in 2014 and put two dogs, Hurricane and Jardan, into the public eye with their heroics. While the video below shows only a portion of the entire episode, the description in the book is a chilling look at the reality faced by the canines and their handlers every day, the dogs heroism was recognized by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary’s Awards if 2015 with the Award for Valor.
Even more compelling than the rigorous training and schedule they keep, is the incredible bond the handlers and dogs have with one another. The range of personal stories, from humorous to heartbreaking, makes for an engrossing and highly entertaining read.
If you are looking for a great read that delivers on every page or need the perfect gift for the dog lover or political fan, Secret Service Dogs, available at Amazon, Penguin Random House, Barnes & Noble, via Google Play, and many local retailers, may be just the ticket.