A charming eight-year-old Labrador retriever named Messi has dedicated most of his life to serving as a professional Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent.
Since his employment at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Messi has spent his days screening luggage for explosives, ensuring the safety of everyone in the terminal.
However, amidst all the enjoyment, Messi didn’t notice how quickly the years passed, and he soon became eligible for retirement.
To honor his dedication, his amazing team of agents chose to surprise him with a truly special gift.
Sweet Surprise
During his tenure at the Washington airport, Messi was known for his serious attitude and unwavering determination, making him both a top-notch and adorable colleague.
“He was undoubtedly destined to work for TSA as he loves observing airplanes and frolicking on the grass at nearby Gravelly Point,” stated the TSA in a press release shared with The Dodo.
Each morning, Messi would trot into the airport with an infectious smile, pulling his handler, Peter, behind him.
Even though his daily routine involved tracking scents, Messi approached each day with exuberance, as if he were experiencing his first day on the job every single time.
Messi’s favorite part of his workday was being rewarded with a tennis ball whenever he excelled!
So, for his final shift, his team decided to toss an abundance of tennis balls, leaving Messi utterly amazed!
“A training aid was hidden in a large room, and Messi, with his handler Peter, searched thoroughly. When Messi detected the item, he was showered with tennis balls thrown by fellow canine handlers. Messi was ecstatic!” reported the TSA.
Catch that delightful moment here:
.@TSA passenger screening canine Messi alerts on his last bag before retiring. And then he is showered with dozens of his favorite toys as his retirement celebration kicks off at @Reagan_Airport this morning. pic.twitter.com/aMyqa2zd4s
— Lisa Farbstein, TSA Spokesperson (@TSA_Northeast) April 19, 2024
Messi leaped along with the tennis balls, making valiant attempts to catch at least one in his mouth. Some colleagues encouraged him while others began blowing bubbles his way, adding even more magic to the moment.
After providing him time to enjoy the festivities, Peter presented him with a new and meaningful harness.
“Peter gently removed Messi’s ‘Do Not Pet’ patch from his harness, symbolically indicating that Messi was no longer a working dog and could now be petted. Numerous guests eagerly lined up to give affection to the newly retired pooch,” noted the TSA.
The After Party
Messi relished every moment of affection and attention showered upon him by his wonderful coworkers. While he was no stranger to being called a good boy, this time he felt like he was the best boy in the entire world.
After celebrating his retirement with his TSA family, Messi went home with Peter and embarked on a new life chapter – retirement!
“The dog is ready to swap his working vest for afternoons spent relaxing on the sofa,” the TSA enthused.
The TSA team at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport felt a wave of nostalgia as soon as Messi departed, yet their hearts were filled with joy knowing he could finally enjoy life as a regular house dog.
“Messi is a lovable and diligent dog who delighted in playing with a tennis ball after a long day of sniffing for explosives at the airport. Now he doesn’t have to wait to enjoy his favorite toy,” the TSA concluded.
