Detector Dog Major
Retired
| Name | Major |
|---|---|
| Breed | Labrador Retriever |
| Birth Date | July 2016 |
| Weight | 78 lbs. |
| Handler | Simone Ackermann |
| County | Contra Costa |
| Favorite Treats | Freeze-dried minnows (best ever!!) |
| Favorite Chew | Beef knee caps & cow ears to keep his pearly whites pretty |
| Favorite Place | The beach |
| Favorite Toys | A big red Kong |
Major, a regal 80-pound Labrador Retriever, has retired alongside his handler and trainer, Simone Ackermann, after distinguished service as an agriculture detection canine for the County of Contra Costa. Major began his career in 2017 as a one-year-old pup and spent more than eight impressive years working side-by-side with his handler. Together, they helped protect Contra Costa County and 10 additional counties from invasive pests.
Major’s career statistics speak for themselves: more than 41,000 parcel interceptions, including 5,700 unmarked packages, 783 pest and disease finds—among them 544 invasive pest detections—and 38 public outreach events across seven counties.
Still youthful in body and spirit, Major will continue life’s adventures with Simone as they enjoy retirement traveling across the country in their campervan before eventually relocating to Greece for sunshine, beaches, warm water, and great food
Meet the Yolo County agricultural department's new detector dog
Ashley Sharp reports for CBS News Sacramento (2:48)