SOW_Attachment_1.doc

ELC CANINE KENNELING 7/25/18 1 of 8

Statement of Work

U.S. Customs and Border Protection OBP – El Centro Sector – Indio Station K9 Kenneling Service

1. BACKGROUND

The U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP), U.S. Border Patrol, El Centro Sector, Indio Station, has a continuing need to board six, no more than seven K9’s at any one given time. This service will allow our agents to adequately house and access our K9’s to more effectively complete CBP’s mission.

2. SCOPE

The purpose of this procurement is to secure a K9 Kenneling facility that will effectively support the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for six K9’s. Contractor primary responsibility shall be to provide secure commercial kennel facilities for the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), El Centro Sector, Canine Program. Six kennel spaces will be needed throughout the year. The quantity may be increased or reduced based on the needs of the service. Requirements shall include the safe and secure housing for six, no more than seven K9’s at any one given time. Requirements include associated kennel related goods and on-site veterinary services as prescribed by this Statement of Work. Contractor shall provide labor, supervision, facilities, equipment and personnel necessary to satisfy the kenneling requirements for the CBP canines.

3. SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

3.1 Vendor location must be within 10 miles of The Indio Border Patrol Station

· 45-620 Commerce Street Indio, CA 92201

3.2 Access

Contractor shall provide 24 hours per day, 7 days per week access to the portion of the kennel facility used to kennel the CBP canines. CBP handlers/instructors must be able to retrieve their assigned canine within 10 minutes of their arrival at the kennel. To meet this requirement, Contractor shall provide each handler/instructor with the necessary means of access (e.g. keys, lock combination, 24-hour staff) to independently retrieve their canines.

Contractor shall ensure that only authorized kennel personnel have access to CBP canines. Access to and contact with CBP canines by the general public and other animals including, but not limited to, privately kenneled animals is strictly prohibited at all times. Under no circumstances should a member of the public, or any other unauthorized person have access to the CBP canines.

3.3 Security

Contractor shall provide security to the kennel facility after normal operating hours.

· If key type door locks or padlocks are used for after hour’s security, the contractor will provide a key (or sets of keys, as appropriate) to each assigned CBP handler/instructor. All entry/exit points will be locked after hours or when unattended. All dog runs shall be secured. Kennels shall have double gates/doors to enter/exit the facility and grounds.

3.4 Handling

Kennel personnel will not handle any CBP canines while housed at the kennel unless for medical emergencies or exigent circumstances involving possible injury or death to the canine.

· Contractor shall ensure that kennel personnel do not identify or point out to anyone the identity and location/runs of CBP canines. No information about the CBP canines should be disseminated to anyone, other than CBP handlers/instructors, at any time.

· In addition to providing suitable space for the canines, Contractor shall ensure that the kennel, access buildings, break areas, and curtilage are kept clean. At all times, the entire kennel site shall be kept in a condition that will not pose a danger to the canines or the handlers/instructors. The kennel site shall be kept in an acceptable sanitary condition. (See section 3.6 entitled Sanitation.)

· A Point of Contact, Office of Border Patrol representative, may conduct a semi-annual review and will provide a report to the Contracting Officer after each review.

· CBP canines are typically of the sport variety. CBP canines are working dogs, not pets and boarded while their handlers are on vacation. These canines work 8-16 hours a day, often in high stress situations. The canines typically weigh between 50-90 pounds. Absent very unique circumstances, no CBP canine will be younger than one year old. The primary purpose of CBP canines is to utilize their extensive training to locate illegal contraband and concealed humans. Therefore, it is important for these canines to rest while they are in the kennel facility.

3.5 Facility and Run Requirements

The kennel facilities must be situated in a location that will be quiet and secure from the public. The facility must provide an environment conducive to the canines obtaining adequate rest. Audible and visual distractions are considered detrimental. These are extremely important requirements that are necessary in order to maximize the actual work hours of the canines and to not diminish their effectiveness. Only one canine shall be in each kennel run at any one time.

· FLOOR AND DOG RUNS: The kennel building shall be constructed with concrete foundations and sub floors. Kennel run floors will be a sealed, hard, non-skid surface (i.e. concrete or tile is acceptable). All concrete surfaces will be sloped and constructed to allow for adequate drainage for flushing stools and urine from the kennel run. Pooling of liquid is not permitted. Other floors and pathways should be of a non-skid surface for adequate drainage for flushing stools and urine from the kennel surface. The only items permitted in the dog runs are water bucket, feed dish and chew toy provided by handler/instructor.

· KENNEL RUNS: All kennel runs shall be disinfected with veterinary approved chemicals. (See section C.4 Sanitation.) Each kennel run will have a minimum of 24 square feet. No dimension of the kennel run shall be less than three feet.

· KENNEL RUN BARRIERS: If kennel runs use a common barrier to separate adjacent runs, the barrier shall be from the floor to the chain link or canopy top to prevent cross contamination between runs. The barrier must consist of, from the floor, a solid or composite wall at least three feet six inches in height. The remainder of the barrier shall either be a solid wall or wire mesh fence fabric.

· DOGHOUSES: Kennel runs shall be equipped with either a raised sleeping platform or doghouse. Outside kennel runs shall have the dog’s bedding area enclosed, preferably a doghouse. The doghouse shall have three solid sides and a top. If the facility has outdoor runs, the doghouse shall be positioned in the shaded side of each run. The doghouse shall be large enough to allow the dog to turn freely and provide at least two inches clearance above the animal’s head while in the standing position. To meet this requirement the doghouse must have a minimum inside height of 40 inches.

· SLEEPING AREAS/PLATFORMS: Kennel runs will be equipped with either a raised sleeping platform or doghouse. Sleeping platforms shall be of non-porous materials (e.g. stainless steel, fiberglass). The platform shall be of adequate size to accommodate the dog. If the enclosed bedding area is attached to the kennel run, it will have two solid walls between the adjacent kennel runs with chain link ends. If the enclosed bedding area is separate from the kennel run it must have four solid walls with an access opening on one end.

· CANOPIES AND CHAIN LINK TOPS: Kennel runs shall be covered with a canopy that will provide shade during all daylight hours. The kennel run will have secured chain link tops, to prevent the dog from jumping or climbing out.

· VENTILATION: All kennel facilities and kennel runs shall have fresh air either through windows, doors, vents or air conditioning. The minimum air temperature shall not be less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The maximum air temperature shall not be more than 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

· FENCING AND GATES: Wire mesh fence fabric will be utilized on the runs and gates. The fabric will be at least 11-gauge material for 2-inch mesh or at least 13-gauge for 1 ¼-inch mesh. Access gates to each run and sleeping area will have a positive latching system to prevent the dogs from jumping against the latch and accidentally opening the gate. Kennel facilities shall have double gate/doors that require the dog to go through two secure gates/doors to enter/exit the facility and grounds. Security fencing shall surround all outside runs and break areas. The fence fabric shall be a minimum 11-gauge steel wire mesh chain link fence. The fabric height, from ground to top of fence, shall be between 6-foot and 8-foot. No fence will be located so that the features of land (its topography) or structures defeat its purpose by allowing passage over, around, or under the fence. The fence shall be kept in good repair at all times. The chief intention of this requirement is to restrict access to the kennel from outside. As such, all fencing must meet this requirement.

· LIGHTING: The kennel compound, kennel runs, and parking lot will be sufficiently lighted to provide security and to allow for safe night time activity in removing or returning canines to their kennel runs. All accessible areas will be lit, either by motion sensors or permanent lighting.

· KENNEL CONSTRUCTION: The government will not reimburse the contractor for any construction or remodeling.

3.6 Sanitation

Kennel runs and sleeping areas shall be disinfected every day with a veterinarian approved disinfectant solution and shall be rodent and pest free. Contractor will supply disinfectant and associated tools and equipment for kennel maintenance. Kennel runs shall be washed and stools shall be removed from the runs as often as necessary.

All chemicals shall be stored away from any food items, capped and in the original labeled containers. Chemicals not in the original container shall be clearly marked. All disinfectants used for cleaning shall have the approval of the Environmental Protection Agency or the State.

When a CBP canine breaks, there shall be only one dog per “break area.” No privately boarded canines shall break at the same time in the same area as CBP canines. Break areas shall be kept clean. Stools and waste shall be removed promptly.

· FOOD AND WATER AREAS: Kennel personnel shall clean food and water utensils every day with hot soapy water. Stainless steel feed and water pans shall be used. All food shall be stored in rodent proof storage containers. The area will be rodent and pest free. Contractor shall provide a refrigerator for special diets and medications. Medication will be properly labeled and stored in the refrigerator, if necessary. If the water supply comes from an underground well, it must be tested and approved for human consumption (potable). The kennel shall have potable hot and cold running water. CBP handlers/ instructors shall have 24-hour access to the potable hot and cold running water. Self-waterers will not be permitted. Water must be approved for human consumption.

· HEALTH: Contractor shall ensure that the CBP canines are not kenneled in the same room with any animals that are quarantined or under medical treatment. The kennel must have an isolation area to accommodate those animals currently under quarantine or medical treatments. The kennel shall have First Aid Kits for personnel and animals. The kennel shall have written procedures to educate employees on how to handle animal related injuries.

· When a CBP canine requires medication, and the assigned CBP handler/instructor is off-duty, the CBP handler/instructor shall make arrangements with the kennel personnel to administer the CBP provided medication to the canine as prescribed.

· Contractor shall observe the appearance and activity of the dogs for signs of illness, wounds, disease and discontent. The contractor shall specifically watch for signs of injury or other changes in physical condition.

· In the event a CBP canine is injured or becomes ill, Contractor shall contact the canine handler/instructor immediately upon determining the canine is injured or ill. This contact shall be made within one hour of determining that the canine is injured or ill. If he/she is unavailable, contact a CBP supervisor. If it is an emergency, and a canine handler/instructor cannot be contacted, the contractor will provide medical service on-site at VCA Valley Animal Medical Center. The contact names, titles, and phone numbers of all canine personnel will be provided.

· In the unlikely event a CBP canine passes away, CBP personnel will take possession of the dog and arrange for a necropsy with VCA Valley Animal Medical Center. CBP personnel will dispose of the remains at an off-site location. No CBP canine shall be buried or disposed of by kennel personnel.

· DEBRIS: The compound area where the kennels are located shall be free of all refuse, garbage, trash, and debris. Seeded areas within the compound shall be mowed/chopped and kept free of brush and tall vegetation that could pose a health hazard to the dogs, handlers, or other individuals entering the premises.

· FLEA AND TICK PREVENTION: The kennel and surrounding areas shall be treated to prevent infestation of fleas and ticks. These areas shall be treated on a semi-annual basis, at a minimum.

· BREAK AREAS: When CBP canines are in the break areas, the area shall be kept free of all toys, e.g. tennis balls.

3.7 Food

Contractor shall provide supplies and equipment necessary to perform the services. This includes items such as stainless steel feed and water pans, cleaning supplies and equipment, disinfectants etc. CBP will provide food for the CBP canines.

3.8 Feeding

Contractor personnel will not be responsible for feeding the CBP Canine. The assigned CBP handler/instructor has the responsibility and is accountable to ensure the Food Chart is completed each day.

3.9 Veterinary Service

In the event that a CBP canine becomes ill, the contractor shall contact CBP handler/instructor in the following order: canine handler, canine instructor, canine supervisor and canine coordinator. Any and all emergency medical services shall require prior notification to CBP personnel.

4. General Requirements

4.1 Protection

Contractor shall have a plan for emergency procedures. A copy of the local fire evacuation plan shall be posted in the kennel. The contractor will provide fire extinguishers on site to extinguish common construction materials and/or electrical fires. The contractor will ensure that the fire extinguishers are inspected and maintained in accordance with the local/state/federal fire regulations. The contractor shall have business insurance as required by the appropriate state and local governments and municipalities.

The government point of contact (POC) shall make periodic unannounced inspections. The contractor must be certified to provide kenneling services, if required, by the appropriate local and state government municipalities.

4.2 Escaped Dog Plan

Contractor shall have a written plan in the event that a canine escapes from the kennel. The plan shall define what steps are taken to notify the owner, call local law enforcement agencies/animal control, and advertise in local publications, etc.

4.3 Personnel

If required by the state, the kennel manager must be certified to manage a kennel facility. If the kennel manager is replaced, the contractor will provide notification to the CBP immediately

4.4 Record Keeping

Contractor shall keep a record of all CBP canines kenneled at the facility during each 30-day/monthly billing cycle.

4.5 Parking

Contractor shall have available parking spaces, on facility grounds, to accommodate government owned vehicles of CBP personnel who are on duty or who are working with the dogs. Sufficient parking and a safe, lighted area to load and unload dogs is required. (See section 3.5 Lighting.) 24-hour access to the parking area is required.

5. Period of Performance

September 1, 2018 – August 31, 2019 (Base year)

September 1, 2019 – August 31, 2020 (Option Year 1)

September 1, 2020 – August 31, 2021 (Option Year 2)

6. Special Considerations

6.1 Changes to the SOW

•No changes to this SOW or cost increases shall be incurred without prior written approval of the Contracting Officer.

6.2 Travel

•Travel is not required to support the tasks identified in the SOW.

6.3 Point of Contact

•All contract questions and concerns shall be directed to the point of contact as designated below. The Contracting Officer is the only individual with the authority to amend this contract.

Points of Contact

Program Coordinator

Michael Eddy

Special Operations Supervisor

El Centro Sector

(760) 335-5765

Michael.eddy@cbp.dhs.gov

Mission Support

Jose Ramirez

Mission Support Specialist

El Centro Sector

(760) 335-5700

Contracting Officer

Cindie Walker

Border Enforcement Contracting Division – Pacific Branch

Imperial, CA

(202) 903-7295

Cindie.walker@cbp.dhs.gov

7. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS TO BE EVALUTED:

•Location of the facility proximate to the Indio Station.

•Security of the facility/K9’s and government equipment.

•Road conditions.

•Prior Experience

•Kenneling runs and barriers.

•Overall condition and maintenance of kennel area.

8. Environmental Management

In order to comply with federally mandated environmental preference programs and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) “Green Procurement Program” (GPP) policy, US Customs and Border Protection requires the use of environmentally preferable products and services. These program elements include: recovered material products, energy and water efficient products, alternative fuels and fuel efficiency, bio-based products, non-ozone depleting substances, priority chemicals, and environmentally preferable products. These program elements are described on the Office of the Federal Environment Executive website (http://www.ofee.gov).