Handler: Carlos Juarez
Breed: Labrador Retriever
DOB: 11/16/2015
Department: Amtrak Police Department
Function: Explosive Detection
Years Worked: 7/8/2017 – 1/21/024

We became partners back in 2017 through VWK9, located in Anniston, AL. We spent 7 weeks in that Alabama heat getting to know each other. At that time my kids were 7 and 4. Seeing how energetic Bridgette was I felt kind of worried when it was time to go back home and introduce her to my family. I didn’t want Bridgette to run all over my kids and scare them of dogs.

Finally, the day came when I would return back home. Before going inside the house I warned my family that Bridgette loves to run around and explore. I warned my kids that Bridgette is big and fast so that they give her space to roam around. The moment Bridgette stepped inside the house it seemed like she flipped a switch. Bridgette was calm and at the same time eager to meet her new family. My family, of course, ended up loving her and we’ve been together ever since.

Through Bridgette’s service years (2017-2024) we’ve been very fortunate is participating in the following events across the nation:

  • Provided assistance with security at the Bank of America marathons in Chicago. (7 marathons total)
  • Detailed to the Kansas City Chiefs Superbowl parades in KC. (2020, 2023)
  • Assigned to President Bidens Amtrak train campaign tour. (2020)
  • Detailed to assist in President Bidens inauguration in Washington DC. (2021)
  • Provided assistance to Kansas City with security during the NFL Draft in KC. (2023)

I’ve been very lucky to have Bridgette as my partner. Now she gets to enjoy retirement and according to my kids, Bridgette can finally be a dog.

Update: After serving 7 years and retiring earlier this year from the Amtrak Police Department in Chicago, Bridgette has plenty of time to play with all her toys and sun-bathe on sunny days. She still gets super excited when she gets the leash attached to her collar, she really enjoys long walks and exploring the neighborhood.