Hi, I’m Jessica and I work as an Animal Care and Welfare Technician (ACWT) within the Border Force National Dog Team (NDT).
My role is to make sure the welfare needs of our detector dogs are met while they’re at the kennel site. That means making sure the dogs receive the physical and mental stimulation they need every day, as well as opportunities to perform natural behaviours through exercise and tailored enrichment activities.
Alongside caring for the dogs, I help maintain the high hygiene standards expected across the unit. This includes cleaning kennel facilities, grooming and food preparation areas and reporting any maintenance issues that arise.
Supporting a capability that protects the UK
The NDT is one of the many specialist resources within Border Force, but we’re unique in combining the capabilities of detector dogs with Border Force operations.
Our dogs are trained to detect a range of commodities and work alongside handlers across a variety of locations, helping identify illegal substances and prohibited items.
When the dogs aren’t on duty protecting our borders, they’re cared for by the ACWT team. As one of their main carers, I help maintain the welfare standards that support the dogs’ wellbeing and help ensure they’re ready to perform at their best when they’re back on duty.
By reducing stress and supporting a positive state of mind, we help safeguard the dogs’ long-term wellbeing.
Growing a career with Border Force dogs
I’ve worked within the dog unit for almost five years. During that time, I’ve developed my knowledge of kennel operations and built my expertise in canine enrichment and welfare. More recently, I’ve become involved in Border Force’s first puppy programme, where I’ve helped raise one of the programme’s puppies from 10 weeks of age.
I’ve always been interested in working with animals. Before joining Border Force, I completed an animal welfare course and a Zoology degree while gaining experience across different animal-related sectors. When this role was advertised, it felt like the perfect opportunity to combine that interest with work that helps protect the UK’s borders.
Every dog is different
The fundamentals of my day stay the same, but no two days are identical.
Each dog has its own individual needs. Some require specific training, some only socialise with certain dogs, while others may need additional support due to medical requirements.
Throughout the day, I clean kennels, maintain hygiene standards and make sure the dogs have opportunities to engage in activities they enjoy. Tailored enrichment is an important part of this. For example, if a dog enjoys digging, I’ll make sure they have time in the sandpit rather than spending longer than necessary in their kennel.
The role is practical and hands-on. Whatever the weather, the dogs still need exercising, training and caring for. The dogs are at the centre of my day, and my responsibilities are planned around their welfare requirements.
Alongside my kennel duties, I’m currently responsible for Sage, one of the puppies being developed through Border Force’s new puppy programme – which I enjoy. Since she was 10 weeks old, I’ve supported her obedience training and introduced her to both everyday environments and operational locations, helping prepare her for her future role as a detector dog.
“Seeing the impact you have on each dog is incredibly rewarding.”
More generally, I enjoy the variety that comes with working alongside different dogs and colleagues every day. Each dog has its own personality, preferences and quirks.
Getting to know the dogs as individuals allows me to adapt their day to suit their needs. Seeing the positive impact that has on their welfare, and development is one of the most rewarding parts of the role.
Supporting the team through learning and development
Since joining the dog programme, I’ve had opportunities to develop my skills through canine first aid, canine massage, and canine defence and handling courses.
I’ve also been able to share ideas and contribute to improvements. One example was creating an enrichment presentation that helped explain the importance of enrichment in a working dog’s life. The presentation was later used to support colleagues nationally.
I’ve worked at different kennel sites across the dog programme, learning from colleagues across the country and sharing best practice. I’ve also spent time shadowing operational handlers, helping me understand how my day-to-day work contributes to the wider capability of the National Dog Team.
A unique place to work
The dog unit is a unique place to work. It’s a role for people who genuinely enjoy working with animals and understand the responsibility that comes with looking after them. You’ll be working outdoors in all weathers, maintaining doggy welfare and hygiene standards, working independently and as part of a team, and helping ensure the dogs are ready for operational duties.
If you’re looking for a practical and rewarding role that combines animal welfare with helping protect the UK’s borders, it’s a fantastic place to build a career.
