(AP) LINTHICUM, M. Argo knows it’s time to get to work as soon as he enters Baltimore-Washington International Airport.
The 9-year-old black Labrador retriever patrols the airport for the most of his waking hours, using his keen sense of smell to spot possible bombs.
He approaches passengers from behind and sniffs them thoroughly. He promptly notifies Jonathan Lilly, his handler and a transportation security specialist, if he smells something fishy. The two are preparing for a hectic travel season around the holidays.
During a recent display of Argo’s abilities, Lilly remarked, “I’m always in awe of what he can accomplish.” He simply excels at it.
A 2025 TSA canine calendar has 12 canines, including Argo. He is depicted in his portrait with an American flag in the background, his eager face as though he were holding his prized ball just out of the frame.
Argo has the important responsibility of safeguarding American flight passengers when he is not posing. He was shown a decoy during the presentation, which featured a guy carrying a rucksack filled with what appeared to be possible explosives.
Argo instantly responded to the scent by lowering his nose to the ground, wagging his tail more quickly, and dragging his handler in the direction of the target while the guy joined other travelers and strolled idly into the security line. His favorite toy, a tennis ball on a string, was promptly given to him as a treat.
As usual, Argo threw the toy in celebration of his achievement, and Lilly gave him an additional reward by playing a little tug-of-war. He wags his tail practically constantly. Being a good boy, he strolls contentedly among the crowds of people and luggage.
For seven years, the two have been employed together. Although they are headquartered in BWI, they have supported the team by traveling to recent Super Bowls and other events. When he retires, which is probably years away, Lilly stated that he intends to adopt Argo.
He still acts like a puppy at the age of nine. According to Lilly, he still wants to work.
He claimed that although they were a strong team right away, their relationship has only grown closer over time.
According to officials, TSA canines are extensively trained to identify air currents that follow people, such as the wake left by a boat. They are able to detect specific components due to their exceptional sense of smell. Dogs may detect distinct scents from the cheese, sauce, and crust, whereas humans may detect the aroma of pizza.
Argo was assigned to Lilly at the National TSA Canine Training Center in San Antonio, which is where the agency trains its explosive detection dogs. The team began their duty at BWI after completing a 16-week curriculum. To maintain Argo at the top of his game, they continue to go through regular testing and training.
In this manner, we may ensure that he continues to be proficient in his work. However, since it’s a perishable skill, Lilly advised trying to progress as well.
According to him, having explosives detecting dogs on patrol at airports helps identify and dissuade such threats.
Argo naps for the most of his free time while he isn’t working.
According to Lilly, the black lab is very relaxed at home. Argo follows a stringent diet for his health because he works for the government. He anticipates a satisfying lunch after a demanding workday, just like many of his human pals.
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