Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Secret Service dog falls to death working Biden event

An accident has claimed the life of a Secret Service dog while on duty protecting the vice president in New Orleans.

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Secret Service dog falls to death working Biden event

POSTED: Monday, January 28, 2013, 11:17 PM

An accident claimed the life of a Secret Service dog while on duty protecting the vice president in New Orleans over the weekend.

The Belgian Malanois dog - similar to the one pictured above - fell from a six-story parking garage across the street from the hotel where Vice President Joe Biden was speaking.

Federal agents and police rushed the dog to a veterinary hospital but it could not be revived, according to WWL-TV.

The dog and its handler were on a bomb sweep ahead of Biden's appearance at a fundraiser for the reelection campaign of Louisiana Sen. Mary Landrieu.

A Secret Service spokesman called the dog's death a "tragic accident" Officials said they will not be releasing the name or gender of the dog.

The Secret Service began its canine program in 1975 as a way to detect explosives, according to the agency website.

The Belgian Malanois is a shepherd breed developed in Holland. It is known for its agility and dedication, traits that make it a popular choice for law enforcement and military work.

The last time Biden made animal news headlines was in 2008 when he purchased a German Shepherd puppy from a Chester County breeder.

The Pennsylvania Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement revoked the kennel license of breeder Linda Brown in 2011 following a string of failed inspections during which she was cited for keeping scores of dogs in cramped and filthy conditions.  

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Comments  (3)
  • 0 like this / 0 don't   •   Posted 11:23 PM, 01/28/2013
    They can't keep the dog safe? Cmon.
    pesticide
  • 0 like this / 0 don't   •   Posted 11:50 PM, 01/28/2013
    tooooo darn sad! these are beautiful smart dogs....how could this happen!?
    tajicat
  • 0 like this / 0 don't   •   Posted 3:06 PM, 01/31/2013
    I have been in Law enforcement for 27 years and have owned K-9's and been arouind and supervised K-9 Units. Not having a leash on this K9 six stories up is crinimal. Absolutely no excuse!!
    stanstey1


About this blog
Amy Worden is a politics and government reporter for the Inquirer. In that capacity she has explored a range of animal issues from dog kennel law improvements and horse slaughter to the comeback of peregrine falcons and pigeon hunts. From hamsters to horses, animals have always been part of her life. To pass along a tip or contact Amy, click here. Reach Amy at aworden@phillynews.com.

Amy Worden Inquirer Staff Writer
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