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Irbe was third born at 7:20 am 4/3/96. He was the smallest of the boys and always did things a little different than the rest of the litter, very smart none the less. We named him Irbe (pronounced Erbay) after a San Jose Sharks Ice Hockey star. Vikki of Hayward, CA was Irbe's P/R. Since Irbe was trained locally we got to see him on a regular basis. He was a handsome boy and always remembered his "birthing people Mom". (left) Irbe at 7 weeks. |
(right) Vikki and Irbe at CCI puppy training class. Puppy class was taught by Mandy at this time. |
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Vikki took this picture of Irbe (right) which remains my favorite. |
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Handsome Irbe just before turn in. |
| Irbe passed Advanced Training and went into CCI Team Training, however, his partner
dropped out before graduating.
Rather than keeping Irbe kenneled until next term he was transferred to Makor. Makor is a Kennel/Training Facility that provides dogs to search out drugs and explosives. Most dogs go to government agency's like Police, FAA, US Customs and Schools. (right) Irbe with Makor trainer Kip. Irbe was being trained to seek out nine types of explosives, more may be added later. When he detects a scent, he has been trained for, he sits and is rewarded by getting to retrieve a rolled towel. This IS a reward for a retriever you know? |
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When Irbe graduated from Makor he was placed with the Phoenix Bomb Squad where he works and lives with Detective Jack Bohi, Jack's wife and two boys. Detective Jake explained that he had changed lavender's name from Irbe to Herby so he wouldn't have to explain all the time how he got the name rather than explain his purpose. Herby had his first find immediately upon starting with the
team. It turned out to be ammunition (they were manufacturing and selling
to unlicensed persons). This find gave the Police Department probable
cause to obtain a search warrant. He said the ATF agents were very
impressed and admittedly owe Herby a steak. Detective Jake feels Herby is
still very young and will in time be outstanding. |
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Visit the pages of Irbes' brothers and sisters below.
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