Grand

Handler: Justin Grindell
Breed: German Shorthaired Pointer
DOB: 4/5/2014
Department: Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
Function: Explosive Detection
Years Worked: 2/26/2016 – 5/23/2024

As my first working dog partner, Grand was assigned to me at Lackland Air Force Base in February 2016 where certified as an Explosives Detection Canine Team and have been working together ever since. Over the course of his career, he has responded to over 1,900 unattended bag calls at the Orlando International Airport (MCO). He has also been assigned to protective details of three U.S. Presidents, Vice Presidents, and other Heads of State and Dignitaries during their travels into and out of MCO.

He is looking forward to taking long naps on the couch (he thinks I don’t know he sneaks up there) and looking out the window at Florida’s lizards as they torment him through the glass.

Update 2024: Grand has taken to his retirement well. He is in good spirits and remains his normal goofy self. He is enjoying “ruling the roost” as he now has my new partner to boss around.

Update 2025: Grande continues to thrive in retirement. He has finally broken down my new dog’s shell and he now plays back when Grande tries to play with him. Grande had his first annual exam post-retirement, and he is still as healthy and active as ever. He still greets me at the door every night jumping up and down like a maniac which is good for a dog that just turned 11 years old.