PIERRE, S.D. (AP) - The South Dakota Highway Patrol is retiring its explosive-sniffing Belgian sheepdog.
Jet started his career with the Highway Patrol in 2003 as a police service dog trained to detect odors of different compounds that could be used to construct explosive devices.
Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Craig Price says Jet has been used to sweep through the State Capitol building and other locations. He also helped to detect recently fired weapons during various events, like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
Jet's official retirement day was Wednesday.
His handler, Lt. Scott Sheldon, says Jet is a social dog but becomes focused when on duty. Jet will be released from South Dakota service and into the care of Sheldon and his family.
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