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New Explosive-Sniffing Canines Will Screen Passengers At Logan Airport

BOSTON (CBS) -- Canine helpers trained to detect explosives are making flights safer for passengers at Logan Airport.

It's the first time the dogs are being used for passenger screening.

"Logan has had explosive detection canines," says TSA spokesperson Mike McCarthy. "But these dogs are being used specifically on passenger screening as opposed to traditional dogs used to detect an unattended bag or vehicle at the curbside."

They detect explosives by sniffing the air coming off of a person, as well as what they're carrying through the airport.

logan canine explosive sniffing dog
Jazz, one of Logan Airport's new explosive-sniffing dogs, during a demonstration Wednesday. (WBZ-TV)

During a demonstration Wednesday at Logan, onlookers could see Jazz, one of the airport's new dogs, change behavior when she picked up a suspicious scent from a decoy.

Jazz's handler, Sid Jackson, said his connection with her is a crucial component to the screening.

"You'll see that excitement come from her," Jackson said. "What she'll do is she'll explain to me, 'I found something daddy, I want to play because I found it!'"

logan airport explosive sniffing dog
Jazz, one of Logan Airport's new explosive-sniffing dogs. (WBZ-TV)

It's not a typical dog's life for these pups--they spent 12 weeks of training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas before coming to Logan.

"They provide a great difference," Jackson said. "A great way to protect and serve the people here at Logan and wherever they may be deployed."

As part of the program, which is rolling out nationwide, some 330 K-9 teams are being deployed.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Doug Cope reports

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