A canine handler plays with a puppy at the Mine Detection

A canine handler plays with a puppy at the Mine Detection Center in Kabul, Nov. 3, 2010. The center runs a six-month training program designed to train both handlers and their dogs how to work together to find explosive and narcotic materials. The program is divided into three phases; the first involves the classroom portion for handlers where they learn about narcotics, improvised explosive devices and mine detection while the canines go through a socialization process. During the second phase, handlers are partnered with their dog and in phase three the handler-dog team learn their specialty scent, including explosive materials or narcotics.