Rhea

Handler: George Torres
Breed: German Short-Haired Pointer
DOB: 3/7/2015
Department: TSA
Function: Explosive Detection
Years Worked: 4/2017 – 7/2024

Rhea started her career with TSA O’Hare Airport in 2017. Paired up with her Handler George Torres the pair worked together till the end of July of 2024. Rhea has served her country well working numerous event ranging from the MLB All-Star game, Kentucky Derby, Chicago’s Navy Pier 4th of July and Chicago’s Marathon events. At the Age of 9 Rhea had a scare with cancer which was successfully removed at Partner and Paw’s. This prompted her handler to consider retirement and give her some due rest and relaxation. Rhea has been retired for over a year now and shows no sign of slowing down. She enjoys unlimited treats and her Monday and Tuesday pup cups at Dunkin.

Update 2026:Rhea is a retired TSA DHS K9 who had an incredible career of service. During her time working, she assisted with security operations at two MLB All-Star Games, the 150th Anniversary of the Kentucky Derby, deployments to Seattle, and Operation Allies Welcome in both Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. She also attended advanced K9 training at Auburn University.

After her successful surgery following her encounter with cancer, Rhea was able to retire peacefully and enjoy life at home with her cat, dog, and rabbit siblings. Thanks to the care and support from Dr. Newman, she was given the opportunity to continue living a happy and comfortable life in retirement.

Now retired, she spends her days getting into trouble by chewing sticks, eating grass, and not listening very well — but she is truly enjoying her retirement, and she deserves every moment of it.