Freddie the Beagle Makes His Return to Duty at Dulles Airport

After allegedly being kicked while on the job, a dedicated K9 is back on duty at Washington Dulles International Airport, two weeks post-incident.

Melissa Snyder, an Agriculture Specialist with the Customs and Border Protection, recounted how Freddie, a 5-year-old beagle, alerted her to a suitcase potentially carrying fruits and other perishables in the Virginia airport’s baggage claim zone on June 24.

The luggage was owned by 70-year-old Egyptian, Hamed Aly Marie, who had arrived with his spouse on EgyptAir Flight 981. Upon questioning about their luggage contents, Marie allegedly delivered a powerful kick to Freddie’s side, causing the small dog to be lifted off the ground, resulting in bruising and a contusion, according to CBP. Fortunately, Snyder mentioned, the incident merely startled Freddie rather than causing severe harm.

Following the episode, Freddie received care at a veterinary emergency facility, while Marie was taken into custody by CBP and later handed over to Homeland Security officers. After a brief recovery period, Freddie is now all set to resume his duties.

A once-homeless canine, Freddie has been under CBP's training for almost two years. His main task is to identify and prevent travelers from bringing food items from abroad that could introduce harmful pests to U.S. agriculture.

For Freddie, fulfilling such an important role feels more like playtime than a job, shared Snyder.

"To Freddie, this work feels like an endless game of hide-and-seek. He absolutely enjoys it and, in his view, it's a fun challenge rewarded with treats," she explained.

The beagle breed is particularly suitable for this line of work, Snyder pointed out, not only because of their exceptional olfactory abilities but also due to their approachable demeanor, which can ease passenger anxieties.

Throughout his service, Freddie has efficiently sniffed out over 4,500 pounds of plant products and approximately 3,800 pounds of meat, including exotic items like bushmeat from various animals.

As per CBP's statement, Marie's luggage contained over 100 pounds of agricultural items that were not allowed into the United States. Following the incident, he admitted guilt to the charge of maliciously assaulting a police animal, served time equivalent to his stay in custody, and agreed to cover Freddie's $840 vet bill. Marie was subsequently deported to Egypt by June 26.