SOW.docx
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- INL/El Salvador Single Purpose Green Canines
- Solicitation number
- 191NLE26N0051
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This is a Statement of Work (SOW) for the procurement of single-purpose green canines and K-9 equipment for the El Salvador Civilian National Police (PNC) K-9 Program, issued by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) at the U.S. Embassy in San Salvador.
The government requires procurement of 10 narcotic detection canines from a minimum pool of 40 canines made available for selection testing. Acceptable breeds are Belgian Malinois or German Shepherd dogs, aged 12-24 months, weighing 45-90 pounds, and measuring 22-30 inches at the shoulder. Canines must demonstrate capability to detect drugs, narcotics, and illicit substances in varied environments including buildings, vehicles, cargo areas, and luggage while performing reliably amid gunfire, loud noises, and crowds. Each canine must be accompanied by comprehensive equipment including an extra-large kennel (minimum 42" L x 28" W x 31"H) with automatic water dispenser, security collar, leather leash, muzzle, food bowl, identification tag, flea and tick treatments, blanket, bed, toys, brush/comb, water dispenser, and out stick. The contractor bears full responsibility for transporting canines to the nearest international airport and arranging commercial or cargo airline shipment to El Salvador International Airport, including all required veterinary documentation (health certificates, vaccination records, radiographs, microchip information, and passport). Selection testing occurs at contractor facilities and includes temperament evaluation, prey drive assessment, conflict testing, and critical impulse evaluation using a grading system where 3.5 points is the minimum acceptable score. The contractor must provide a 12-month warranty covering skeletal health, genetic/hereditary conditions, neurological problems, and workability failures, with replacement canines provided at contractor expense. Canines must be delivered no later than 30 days after contract award, with up to 60 days allowed for contractor care prior to shipment. The government awards contracts to the lowest-priced, technically acceptable proposal and reserves the right to conduct discussions if necessary. Related RFI responses were due April 7, 2026, at 5:00 PM EST, sent to WeselyCJ@state.gov, with the government using submissions to assess industry capability and refine acquisition strategy.
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Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) U.S. Embassy – San Salvador
(10) PURCHASE OF SINGLE PURPOSE GREEN CANINES AND K-9 EQUIPMENT FOR EL SALVADOR CIVILIAN NATIONAL POLICE (PNC) – K-9 PROGRAM
January 2026
SECTION 1
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 INFORMATION TO OFFERORS
Offerors are reminded that information furnished under this Request for Quote (RFQ) may be subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Therefore, all items that are confidential to business or that contain trade secrets or proprietary or personnel information must be clearly marked. Marking items shall not necessarily preclude disclosure when Department of State (DOS) determines disclosure is warranted by FOIA. However, if such items are not marked, all information contained within the submitted documents shall be deemed releasable.
1.2 QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE REQUEST FOR QUOTE
Offerors are warned against contacting any INL personnel other than the Contracting Officer and Contract Specialist prior to award of the Contract resulting from this RFQ. If such contact occurs and is found to be prejudicial to competing vendors, the vendor making the contract may be excluded from award consideration. Answers to inquiries/questions, if given, shall be provided in writing to all vendors being solicited.
No information concerning this RFQ shall be provided in response to telephone calls. All such requests must be submitted through FedBid.
1.3 CONTRACTOR RELATIONSHIPS
DOS encourages contractors to use subcontractors. In addition, the Department requires that any potential organizational conflict of interest identified in the proposal ensures proper firewalls are established prior to award.
1.4 MULTIPLE PROPOSALS/ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS
Offerors shall not submit, nor will the Government accept or evaluate, multiple proposals or proposals offering alternative solutions. Offerors shall not submit, nor will the Government accept or evaluate, multiple solutions within one proposal.
1.5 PERIOD OF ACCEPTANCE OF OFFERS
Offerors shall agree, if the proposal is accepted within ninety (90) calendar days (unless a greater period is inserted by the contractor) from the date specified in the solicitation for receipt of proposals, to furnish any or all of the requirements upon which prices are proposed at the price set opposite each item, performed and/or delivered at the designated point(s) within the time specified.
1.6 QUOTATION SUBMISSION FORMAT
1.6.1 GENERAL
INL will validate and evaluate Contractor’s quotations submitted in response to this RFQ. Generally, quotations will be reviewed to ensure: (1) preparation in accordance with instructions of this RFQ; (2) compliance with the requirements specified in the RFQ; and (3) accuracy of price quotation.
1.6.2 FORMAT FOR TECHNICAL AND COST/PRICE QUOTATION
The contractor quotations shall be organized in the following files:
· Technical Proposal (maximum 20 pages)
· Past Performance
· Cost/Price table
1.6.3 Detailed Submission Requirements
Vendors’ technical proposals/price quotations shall include the following:
· Submission shall be viewable in either: Microsoft Word 2010, Excel 2010, PowerPoint 2010, Adobe Reader XI, or Adobe Acrobat Pro X (as applicable and appropriate).
· Vendor shall be limited to no more than three (3) separate digital files for a proposal package.
· The electronic copy, upon file opening and display on the computer monitor, shall appear exactly as the printed hard copy quote submission, including, but not limited to, font size and spacing/kerning.
At a minimum, a proposal package must include:
· Completed Pricing Matrix,
· Detailed itemized technical specifications,
· Past performance and three references, including name, position, and contact information (References should be current or former customers, preferably U.S. Government or state/local government),
· Description of any special features, testing procedures, and any value-added services,
· Delivery information and shipping services including terms and conditions, and
· Warranty information
Proposals that include only the information found in the solicitation (e.g., copied/pasted) will not be considered a complete proposal. Vendor submissions must include a detailed description of the items that will be provided.
1.7 EVALUATION FACTORS AND METHODOLOGY
The Government reserves the right to eliminate from consideration for award any or all offers at any time prior to award of the contract and to award the contract to the offeror submitting the proposal determined to represent the best value: the LOWEST priced, technically acceptable (Tradeoff) proposal.
1.8 OTHER INFORMATION
Partakers in SOW: Government (INL Section, U.S. Embassy San Salvador), and Host government (Government of El Salvador or GOES).
SECTION 2
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
2.0 REQUIREMENT
Single Deliverable: (10) Ten Single Purpose Green canines (Selection Tested): Narcotic Detector
Number of canines and delivery procedures:
This purchase order entails procuring 10 canines and delivering them to El Salvador. The contractor shall have the canines available for selection testing no later than 30 days after the contract is awarded.
The contractor will provide a minimum of 40 canines for the selection process, from which the INL will accept and retain 10 canines. The contractor will deliver the 10 selected canines to the nearest international airport at the contractor’s expense. Contractor, at contractor’s expense, will ship the 10 selected canines via either commercial air or cargo/freight airlines to El Salvador International Airport. The contractor shall also provide the necessary documentation, including microchip ID number, current vaccinations, passport, x-rays, health certificates signed by a licensed veterinarian, and other documents for each canine required by the United States, Salvadoran, and any transit country Customs for transport from country of origin and import into El Salvador.
2.1 GENERAL SPECIFICATION
INL San Salvador is procuring a total of ten (10) green dogs that meet minimum selection criteria (selection tested) to be trained to detect drugs, narcotic drugs, and illicit drugs. INL San Salvador will donate the selected green dogs to the Government of El Salvador Canine Program for law enforcement purposes pursuant to an assistance agreement with the Department of State:
| No |
| Item Description |
| Qty |
| 1 |
| Green dogs, single purpose, to be trained to detect drugs, narcotic drugs, and illicit drugs. |
| 10 |
| 2 |
| Crate of minimum size minimum to transport canines of 71-90 lbs. The crate size may vary depending on canine size with an automatic water dispenser and food bowl to transport the canines internationally. |
| 10 |
| 3 |
| Veterinarian health check, files, and vaccination records. |
| 10 |
| 4 |
| Metal ID tag matching the electronic ID chip or tattoo, metal choke collar, flea and tick dips, blanket, canine leash, canine food, bed, and properly fitting muzzle for canine. |
| 10 |
| 5 |
| Transportation and care of the 10 dogs to area of International Airport, where they will be kenneled until they can be transported to El Salvador. |
| 10 |
2.1.1 NARCOTIC CAPABLE DETECTION CANINES: The ideal detection canine must demonstrate the capability to be trained to detect drugs, including narcotics, illicit substances, and synthetic drugs. The canine should be able to effectively search a variety of environments, such as buildings, complex and highly trafficked areas, cargo inspection areas, vehicles (including large trucks and aircraft), as well as luggage, packages, and lockers of varying sizes. The canine must perform reliably in the presence of gunfire, loud noises, crowds, and other routine distractions. Social temperament is essential; canines must exhibit no signs of aggression and must remain calm and approachable in all situations. Additionally, canines should display no fear, aggression, or timidity when introduced to new environments or when working in confined spaces. Physical capability is required, including the ability to independently jump or climb into large delivery-type vehicles. The optimal detection canine is confident, highly motivated, physically sound, and possesses a strong willingness to work for a reward, regardless of the environment or handler.
2.2 EQUIPMENT ACCESSORIES PACKAGE (EACH CANINE MUST INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS):
QUANTITY: 10
· One extra-large canine kennel of a size minimum to transport canines of 71 lbs. to 90 lbs. that meets or exceeds 42” L x 28” W x 31”H, with an automatic water dispenser. The floor of the kennel shall be covered in absorbent material; however, this material cannot be of construction or composition that poses a choking hazard to the canine.
· One food portion to last the length of the trip to El Salvador (1 lb. per canine minimum)
· 1 security canine collars military spec MIL-C-1161 or equivalent
· 1 military spec brown braided 6’ leather leash ¾” leather lead, ¼” thick harness leather, 3/4” brass snap or equivalent
· 1 Baskerville ultra-dog muzzle size #5 or equivalent
· 1 food bowl: Stainless steel, non-skid, canine bowl
· 1 leather tracking leash, ½ inch wide, 33’ long, ½” brass bolt snap.
· 1 identification tag: Metal industry standard.
· 2 flea collars: for fleas and ticks industry standard.
· 2 flea and tick dips; industry standard
· 1 blanket: industry standard.
· 1 bed: designed to fit the kennel for traveling purposes IAW the canine size.
· 2 toys: ball/Kong toy.
· 1 brush /1 comb
· 1 automatic water dispenser
· 1 out stick.
2.3 VETERINARIAN CERTIFICATES PER CANINE
QUANTITY: 10 overall - one per K-9
· Physical Health testing
· Orthopedic radiographs
· Approved flight certificate
· Up-to-date vaccination record
2.4 SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR CANINES
The Contractor shall provide the following:
The vendor shall provide canines that are considered "work dogs" from the list of acceptable breeds below to guarantee the full requirement of 10 dogs. The canines must have been raised from birth to the age of twelve (12) to twenty-four (24) months in an environment that meets the technical specifications mentioned below.
· Canines must be conditioned to be sociable, obedient, never tied down, and well socialized (i.e., around people at all times);
· Acceptable canines must be attracted to and enjoy playing/interacting with a tennis ball and/or Kong toy;
· Acceptable canines must NOT be fearful of loud noises, such as machinery, engines, gunfire, etc;
· The canines will be used, in conjunction with a designated handler, to detect the trained odors in concealed areas; and
· The canines will work with the Salvadoran Anti-Narcotics Police Division (PNC/DAN) and/or the Interagency Border Task Force in the pursuit of concealed narcotics and/or clandestine burial sites.
The canines shall be tested and examined at the contractor’s facility by GOES certified instructors, INL Counternarcotics Program staff members, and/or a licensed veterinarian. The contractor must provide canines that pass the physical and performance tests listed in Section 4.
Successful bidders and selected canines must meet all the requirements of this Request.
2.4.1 Breeds: The ten (10) narcotic detection canines shall be Belgian Malinois or German Shepherd. Other breeds, including mixed breeds, may be considered at the request of the Government of El Salvador (GOES) agency and only if they pass the selection criteria.
2.4.2 Age: Canines shall have a documented age between twelve (12) and twenty-four (24) months old by the time of selection. This shall be documented by a veterinarian certificate of birth or equivalent. In extraordinary cases, if a canine exceeds the maximum specified age for up to six (6) months but the INL San Salvador selection team considers its abilities are exceptional for police work, INL may authorize the canine selection.
2.4.3 Weight: The canines shall weigh no less than forty-five (45) pounds and no more than ninety (90) pounds. The canine shall have a healthy weight between 16 to 25% body fat.
2.4.4 Size: The canines shall measure no less than twenty-two (22) inches (equivalent to fifty-six (56) centimeters) and no more than thirty (30) inches (equivalent to seventy-seven (77) centimeters) at the shoulder.
2.4.5 Sex: The canines may be either male or female.
2.5 Health: Canines acceptable for purchase shall be in excellent health with no acute or chronic disease condition. A board-certified veterinarian shall provide health certificate at the time of evaluation. A complete medical examination of the canine shall be performed by a licensed veterinarian prior to delivery. The results of the examination shall be included on a health certificate provided with the canine.
The medical examination shall include:
a. Gait: canine displaying any gait abnormality, which could impact the canine’s ability to perform normal duty, shall be disqualified.
b. Skin/coat: skin and coat shall be healthy and not have any evidence of chronic dermatitis, allergies, infections, injuries, or external parasite infestations.
c. Teeth/Jaws: all canines shall have normal dental occlusions. There shall be no evidence of canine teeth (all four) weakened by notching, enamel hypoplasia, or abnormal wear. Oral infection or excessive periodontal disease may be disqualifying.
d. Complete quality radiographs, issued by a licensed veterinarian, shall be provided with the canine to ensure that the bones, joints, and muscles are healthy and ensure the absence of hip dysplasia.
SECTION 3
WARRANTY
3.1 WARRANTY:
All canines shall be 100% healthy; they shall be free of any genetic defects or debilitating medical conditions unrelated to improper utilization or training for a period of 12 months from the date of purchase. When submitting its proposal, Contractor shall provide the following warranty for all selected canines. If any of the following conditions occur, the vendor shall replace the canine with one that meets all criteria as outlined above at the Contractor’s expense:
· Skeletal Health: if a skeletal, bone, joint, muscle, tendon, or ligament problem is detected within the first 12 months after the date of purchase and acceptance; and/or
· Genetic or hereditary condition: if is detected during the first 12 months after acceptance; or
· Neurological problem: if is detected during the first 12 months after acceptance; or
· Failure of workability/compatibility within the first 6 months after purchase and acceptance.
3.2 Warranty for Congenital Diseases
The contractor shall warrant that all canines provided under this contract are free from congenital diseases that would impair their ability to perform assigned duties. Should any canine be diagnosed by a licensed veterinarian with a congenital disease within 12 months of delivery, the contractor shall, at no additional cost to the government, replace the affected canine with one of equal value. For the purposes of this warranty, congenital diseases include, but are not limited to, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, congenital heart defects (such as subaortic stenosis or patent ductus arteriosus), inherited eye disorders (such as progressive retinal atrophy), and congenital neurological disorders (such as epilepsy). The contractor shall bear all costs associated with the replacement, including transportation and veterinary certification.
3.3 One-year health warranty.
The Contractor shall provide a one-year warranty for each canine purchased under this SOW. If, within one year of delivery, any canine develops a genetic or physical condition—such as hip dysplasia or any other condition—that prevents it from performing detection or police work, the Contractor shall replace the affected canine with another that meets all requirements specified in this SOW for detection-trained canines.
3.4 Exchanges or returns of canines: The contractor shall exchange a defective canine, at its own expense, within 90 days if there are any identified concerns with the canine during training or by recommendation of a licensed veterinarian or a trainer. In the case of exchanges or returns, the contractor will have five (5) working days to reply to the exchange request.
Replacement canines shall be transported to El Salvador at Contractor’s expense. INL, the end user, and Contractor shall agree on the easiest way to deliver canine to end user’s facilities.
If the contractor is unwilling or unable to comply with the request, INL San Salvador will request the contracting officer to modify the contract to reduce the quantity of canines to the exact quantity of effective working canines received.
SECTION 4
EVALUATION CRITERIA
The Government reserves the right to eliminate from consideration for award any or all offers at any time prior to award of the contract and to award the contract to the contractor submitting the proposal determined to represent the best value: The LOWEST priced, technically acceptable proposal. The contractor must meet or exceed the delivery schedule for the quote to be found acceptable.
The Government intends to evaluate proposals and award a contract without discussion with the contractor. The Government reserves the right to conduct discussions if the Contracting Officer determines them to be necessary. Availability of the canines and warranty under this RFQ will be determinant for the award.
TECHNICALLY ACCEPTABLE/UNACCEPTABLE DEFINITIONS
| Acceptable |
| Demonstrates understanding of requirements as outlined in Section Two of the Solicitation; meets or exceeds the specifications outlined in this solicitation; may have strengths; have no significant weaknesses and no deficiencies; and demonstrates good understanding of requirements. |
| Unacceptable |
| Demonstrates a lack of understanding of Section Two of Solicitation; fails to meet the specifications outlined on this solicitation; has major weaknesses or deficiencies, which cannot be corrected without major changes to the quote. |
4.0 SELECTION CRITERIA:
· INL and GOES personnel shall make selections at the Contractor’s facilities.
· Canine selection shall be conducted by a delegation of INL personnel, which typically includes the program manager and/or K-9 advisor, two K-9 instructors, , and a licensed veterinarian Additional personnel may participate in the selection process as determined by program requirements. This team will evaluate and select canines to ensure they possess the necessary capabilities to fulfil the intended operational purpose.
· The Contractor assumes full responsibility for the canines during all transportation necessary (it may include transportation from kennels to vendor’s designated facilities, from facilities to airport, from airport to airport and from airport to lodging facilities before being sent to end user’s canine units). The INL representative and the U.S. Government shall not be responsible for any heat exhaustion that the canines may suffer during the selection and/or transportation.
· The Contractor shall be familiar with the type of tests listed below and shall be aware that up to a 50 percent rejection of canines may occur during the tests. ONLY the canines that meet BOTH the initial selection and the medical tests shall be considered viable and therefore accepted by INL.
· Contractor shall indicate in advance to INL how much time it needs to be ready for the preselection but NLT 30 business days after the contract was awarded to select ten (10) canines in one single trip.
· Contractor past performance will be considered for the evaluation of proposals.
4.1 Evaluation of canines (Selection criteria tests)
The contractor must have available at least 40 canines for INL to select 10 canines at the end of the testing period. Canines will be evaluated by a canine expert or group of experts appointed by INL San Salvador. These representatives will administer a series of standard tests to determine whether each canine has the capability to fulfill its intended purpose. The evaluation will take place at vendor facilities that must be adequate for checking that selected canines possess behavior, instincts, olfactory capabilities, health, phenotype, and physical conditions required for working dogs. During the various evaluations, reward items and/or a bite sleeve will be placed in the search/testing area to identify the canines’ reactions to these items. Only canines approved through this evaluation will be accepted. INL San Salvador will cover all travel expenses of appointed canine evaluators.
The contractor is expected to be familiar with the type of tests listed below (section 4) and should be aware that a 50% rejection of canines may occur during the tests. ONLY the canines that meet BOTH the initial selection and the medical tests will be considered viable and therefore accepted by INL Canines that fail ANY one of these tests will be returned to the contractor at the contractor’s cost. The USG takes NO responsibility for the cost and any other considerations outlined herein for the canines that do not meet the testing requirements and are, therefore, deemed “not accepted” by the USG . Selection will take place at or near the contractor’s facilities. The contractor must provide an area that is separate from where the canines are boarded daily for selection, preferably a single location where all tests can be performed in sequence.
The canine must perform average, above average, or excellent in the following (but not limited to) tests:
GRADING SYSTEMS:
1 = Excellent.
2 = Above average.
3 = Minimum average.
4 = Low average.
5 = Poor 6= Unacceptable The minimum acceptable average is 3.5 points.
DOG CANDIDATE MUST SHOW:
-An intense obsession to play with a variety of objects (toys).
- a stable character.
-Overcoming obstacles with confidence.
SELECTION TEST STAGES:
-Temperament and character. (This stage is divided into 5 tests) -Prey. (Includes 5 tests and examination of perseverance) -Conflict Tests. (This stage is divided into three tests) -Evaluation of critical impulses. (This stage is divided into two tests)
4.2 PRACTICAL PROCEDURES FOR COMPLETE TEST
I. FIRST STAGE: TESTING TEMPERAMENT AND CHARACTER.
GROUP/CROWD: Canine is exposed to a group of people to see how it responds when surrounded, the dog should not be afraid or act aggressively towards people, the canine should have a sociable and happy attitude.
UMBRELLA: Canine is evaluated on its response to the sudden exposure of foreign objects. The handler passively leads the canine past an instructor who suddenly opens an umbrella as the dog passes him. The canine’s reaction is evaluated; does the canine show fear and/or aggression or does it ignore the object.
GUNFIRE/LOUD NOISE: The canine is tested to see how it reacts to gunfire. The test is conducted at a distance of 50 feet both in front and behind the canine. Canine is evaluated on its sensitivity to this noise and its reaction. Canine should not react aggressively and/or show extreme fear.
SLIPPERY FLOOR: The dog is introduced to a slippery surface/flooring. The dog’s reaction and confidence are evaluated during this test.
CONFINED SPACE: This test determines the ability and reaction of the dog to maneuver in and around confined areas.
II. SECOND STAGE. PREY TEST:
This test consists of a series of releases/throws with objects of different materials. The purpose of this test is to determine if the dog will hunt and play with foreign objects (toys). The dog is evaluated to see if it will hunt and play with familiar and foreign objects both hard and soft. This test is very effective when carried out on a hill or near a stream.
Equipment: A 10-meter leash and 5 reward objects made of PVC, wood, copper, aluminum, and rubber.
Handler is posted with the canine: The instructor stimulates the canine with a toy/reward object which is then released/tossed into the hill, once the toy disappears from the dog’s view, the handler then releases the canine without giving any order. Aspects to evaluate:
· Alert: Canine’s intensity (pulling line) is measured while being stimulated and the object is released.
· Speed: Physical effort qualifies the dog going and climbing a hill (the way it moves)
· Hunt: The dog’s hunt is evaluated to see how intensely it searches for the object using its olfactory abilities.
· Bite: The tenacity and the way in which the object is bitten by the dog is evaluated.
· Perseverance: This test is conducted after five (5) tosses. The canine is stimulated with a toy which is then hidden under a heavy object. The canine is evaluated on its tenacity to obtain the hidden toy.
III. THIRD STAGE. CONFLICT TEST.
These tests are conducted after the perseverance test, while the dog is tired, this test is divided into three tests. If the dog does not pass any of the conflict tests it will be discarded.
WATER CONFLICT TEST: This test evaluates the dog's desire and drive to play with the toy when presented with water.
FOOD CONFLICT TEST: This test evaluates the dog's desire and drive to play with the toy when presented with food.
HANDLER CONFLICT TEST: This test evaluates the dog's desire and drive to play with the toy.
IV. FOURTH STAGE. CRITICAL DRIVES TEST.
This stage is divided into two tests: test long releases and online search.
LONG RELEASES: In this test, a reward object is tossed into an area with tall grass or wooded area. The dog is evaluated for hardness by diving into the bush and the level of drive it displays to hunt and sniff for the reward object.
-The dog is kept online and stimulated.
-The object is thrown into the brush.
-The dog is kept online until the object is out of sight.
-The dog is released without orders.
SEARCH ONLINE: An online search is conducted to determine the degree of trainability and sensitivity to the handler.
Equipment needed: Toys, short leashes, search area, (vehicles, buildings, pigeon house, offices, warehouses, etc.). The dog is stimulated by the reward object and then placed the dog out of sight, standing in one location. A systematic search is then performed.
4.3 Physical Tests
All canines acceptable for purchase must be in excellent health with no acute or chronic disease or condition. At the time of evaluation, each canine must be medically able to enter service.
Prior to selection, the contractor shall provide a complete medical examination of the canine performed by a licensed veterinarian. The veterinarian must have a valid license from a legal U.S. State and/or country of origin licensing agency that has jurisdiction over that veterinarian and location.
The results of the examination will be included in a health certificate provided with the canine. The medical examinations shall include:
· Gait: Any canine displaying any gait abnormality, which could affect the canine’s ability to perform normal duties, shall be disqualified.
· Skin/Coat review: Skin and coat should be healthy and not have any evidence of chronic dermatitis, allergies, infections, injuries, or parasite infections.
· Teeth/Jaws review: All canines must have normal dental occlusions. There shall be no evidence of canine teeth (all four) weakened by notching, enamel hypoplasia, or abnormal wear. Oral infection or excessive periodontal disease may be disqualifying.
· Heart/Lungs review: The canine’s heart rate sounds and rhythms must be normal. The cardiovascular and respiratory systems, in general, must be normal at rest and upon exercise. Current heartworm disease is disqualifying.
· Basic ophthalmic review: Eyes must be healthy without alterations on eyelids, conjunctiva, lacrimal system, cornea, sclera, lens, anterior uveal tract, and orbit. If there is any evidence of occurrence, canines may be disqualified.
· Hearing: No condition of the ears that diminishes hearing below normal.
· Neurological system review: The canine neurological system must be normal, if showing any symptoms or alteration evidence canines may be disqualified.
· Complete Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) or country of origin equivalent quality radiographs, issued by a veterinarian, shall be provided with the canine to ensure that the bones, joints, and muscles are healthy. The following apply, but are not limited to:
· Limbs/Joints: Any condition of the bones, joints, or muscles that will hamper or restrict the normal performance of duty will be disqualifying, i.e. hip or elbow dysplasia, degenerative joint disease, arthritis, chronic lameness, fractures that are unhealed and/or healed fractures which may restrict the normal performance of duty, ligament or tendon damage, and muscular deficiency.
A certified veterinarian designated by INL will perform a full physical examination, including x-rays, after the canine successfully completes the selection process to verify that the canine complies with the preceding physical and medical requirements.
4.3.1 Suitability tests:
a. Various scenarios, such as, but not limited to, open spaces, vehicles, closed spaces such as dormitories, bunk beds, offices
b. Behavior
c. Possession
d. Prey instincts
e. Searching patterns
f. Basic obedience
4.3.2 The suitability test shall be held randomly in a neutral space. If requested by the INL/GOES selection team, Contractor may be asked not to be present during this test.
4.3.3 Once the canines are officially selected by INL San Salvador and in case there is any change needed due to incompatibility among a canine and its handler, or for any other reason, the INL shall immediately notify the COR and CO. Any change to the contract shall be issued with the written approval of the CO.
4.4 Canine Required documentation:
4.4.1 Current health certificate administered by a board-certified veterinarian employed or contracted by the Contractor that meet all health and sanitary requirements for canine entry into El Salvador and any transit points between contractor’s facilities and El Salvador. Veterinarian shall consult El Salvador Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock website to verify latest requirements for canine entry into El Salvador, as well as the relevant Ministry for any transit points, prior to issuing health certificate as close as possible to departure date.
4.4.2 Current vaccination records listed below, and other vaccination as required by El Salvador Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) for entry into El Salvador, as well as any vaccination requirements for transit points, are required:
· Vaccines 1 rabies vaccination 1 distemper vaccination 1 hepatitis vaccination 1 parvovirus vaccination 1 leptospirosis vaccination 1 canine cough vaccination
i. Current X-rays (obtained less than sixty days from the date of delivery) of the pelvis and hip area of each forequarter.
ii. Contractor shall provide documentation, such as birth certificates or signed veterinarian health certificate, to prove the canines were born in the U.S. or, in the case of imported canines, provide passports or other document(s) prior to importation into El Salvador.
SECTION 5
REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION
5.1 Veterinarian Certificates per canine:
The Contractor shall provide the following veterinarian Certificates per canine:
QUANTITY: 10
· Current vaccination records: distemper, rabies, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvoviruses, coronavirus, and canine cough. The contractor shall include any other vaccinations the canine has received not listed above.
· Hepatic test (GPT and GOT) renal profile: buncreatinina, hemoparasite (ehrlichiosis, hemobartonella, babesia, and Dirofilaria), CBC, and canines need to be deloused. Include in the stool tests or fecal examination by flotation and sedimentation.
· Current health certificate administered by a licensed, board-certified veterinarian (assumed by the provider) which includes and addresses the requirements above.
· Health certificates and certifications required by the airlines to permit canines to be shipped by air.
· Current x-rays of the pelvis and hip area, shoulder, and the elbow of each forequarter • Scorebooks: copy of certificates of evaluation and follow up from canines.
· Microchip identification number
5.2 Be responsible for completing all health and sanitary documentation, required by U.S. or other third country and Salvadorian authorities prior to departure from Contractor’s facility.
5.3 The Contractor’s team is responsible for providing all paperwork required to import the canines, guarantees delivery to El Salvador International Airport, and understands that INL San Salvador is not responsible for completing the importation process. INL San Salvador shall not provide any document for the importation processes.
5.4 INL San Salvador is not responsible for customs clearance at El Salvador International Airport. INL San Salvador shall be responsible for arranging canines’ transportation from the airport to their final destination in San Salvador.
5.5 Canine profiles and records, before delivery, a Microsoft Excel chart, which shall include the name of the canine, a photo, its chip number, and a copy of medical records shall be emailed to INL.
SECTION 6
EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
6.1 Equipment requirements
Each canine shall travel to El Salvador with the following equipment, and the price shall be inclusive of:
· 1 extra-large canine kennel of a size minimum to transport canines of 71 lbs. to 90 lbs. that meets or exceeds 42” L x 28” W x 31”H, with an automatic water dispenser. The floor of the kennel shall be covered in absorbent material; however, this material cannot be of construction or composition that poses a choking hazard to the canine.
· 1 food portion to last the length of the trip to the canines’ destination (1 lb. per canine minimum)
· 1 security canine collars military spec MIL-C-1161 or equivalent
· 1 military spec brown braided 6’ leather leash ¾” wide leather lead, ¼” thick harness leather, 3/4” brass snap or equivalent
· 1 Baskerville ultra-dog muzzle size #5 or equivalent
· 1 food bowl: Stainless steel, non-skid, canine bowl.
· 1 leather tracking leash, ½ inch wide, 33’ long, ½” brass bolt snap.
· 1 identification tag: Metal industry standard.
· 2 flea collars: for fleas and ticks industry standard.
· 2 flea and tick dips; Industry standard
· 1 blanket: Industry standard.
· 1 bed: designed to fit the kennel for traveling purposes IAW the canine size.
· 2 toys: Ball/Kong toy.
· 1 brush /1 comb
· 1 automatic water dispenser
· 1 out stick.
6.2 Food
All canine units shall be equipped with proper food to the final delivery location (i.e., comprised of high-quality proteins and carbohydrates; and a brand certified by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)). The contractor shall provide food to last the duration of shipment to the canines’ location.
6.3 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
The Contractor shall further send a copy of each commercial invoice, certification, properly certified canine medical information, and airway bill, for customs clearance purposes, to INL’s office at ramosal@state.gov . No booking shall take place and there shall not be any shipments until INL-Logistics confirms INL is ready to receive the canines in El Salvador.
SECTION 7
SHIPPING AND HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS
7.1 Delivery shall be coordinated with INL San Salvador Canine Program and Logistics Personnel. The contractor shall provide the necessary permits for the legal introduction of the canines into El Salvador. No delivery shall take place until fully coordinated by EL Salvador-INL logistics personnel.
7.2 After the contractor receives the contract and after the canines are selected, the contractor shall keep the canines for a period of up to sixty (60) days from the date of the award.
7.3 Contractor shall provide the following information for each canine within 24 hours of selection:
7.5 Maximum time allowed for delivery:
*Regular Baggage: INL Logistics will advise on the return flights (exact date and time) of the INL representatives to allow the contractor to properly arrange for delivery.
*Cargo: the contractor will advise INL Logistics if they will need a handler to travel with canines and how many canines, they will be able to ship per flight, the flight number, and the flight schedule.
SECTION 8
CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITY
8.1 Exchanges or returns of canines: The contractor shall exchange a defective canine, at its own expense, within 90 days if there are any identified concerns with the canine during training or by recommendation of a licensed veterinarian and/or a trainer. In the case of exchanges or returns, the contractor will have five (5) working days to reply to the exchange request. If the contractor is unwilling or unable to comply with the request, INL will reduce the quantity on the contract to the exact quantity of effective working canines received.
8.2 The Contractor shall provide a large van/vehicle for ground transportation of the canines from its facilities to the departing airport. The vehicles used for transportation shall be air-conditioned and shall prioritize the safety and comfort of the canines. When submitting its proposal, the Contractor shall provide color photographs, depicting the vehicle to be used for the ground transportation of the canines along with a detailed Delivery Plan, outlining the procedures and strategy that shall be used for, transporting, exporting, and delivering all the canines.
8.3 The Contractor shall provide air transportation for canines and coordinate with INL COR to export the canines, no later than ten (10) business days after selection. If the Contractor does not receive instructions from the COR, they cannot start coordinating the transportation and exportation of any canine to El Salvador. If any cost is incurred without authorization from the COR, these shall not be paid.
8.4 Canines will travel in one group of ten (10), so the Contractor shall consider if a charter flight is more convenient than cargo and inform INL San Salvador which type of transportation shall be used. Direct flights are preferred, but if not possible only ONE stop is acceptable, and the dogs shall stay inside the airplane. This means they cannot be released in any other airport than International Airport Monseñor Oscar Arnulfo Romero (AIES). On the other hand, if the Contractor decides to ship the dogs in a charter, this shall be a nonstop flight.
8.5 If needed, the Contractor shall provide zip ties to attach a water container inside the kennel, assuring outside access to fill it.
8.6 The Contractor shall bear and assume the costs of cleaning and disinfecting the stalls if needed.
8.7 The Contractor shall ensure the canines are securely and properly crated in their kennels from the moment they are picked up and until their arrival to the AIES, except for any breaks provided during layovers.
8.8 In case a canine gets injured or dies during transportation, the Contractor must replace that canine with a similar one. Replacement canine must have the same training and testing that the injured/deceased canine had. Transportation, exportation, importation, and any other related cost to replace the injured/deceased canine must be covered by the Contractor. The canine must be replaced in a period of no more than 90 days after the injury/death occurred.
8.9 In the event a canine dies in transit, the Contractor shall comply with the necessary protocols for cleaning and incineration, according to El Salvador and/or U.S. regulations, or the country they are in, and shall inform INL San Salvador immediately.
8.10 The Contractor shall comply with all laws, ordinances or other government rules and regulations governing the transportation of such animals in El Salvador, the United States or the country they are transiting.
8.11 The Contractor shall recognize INL San Salvador operations are not commercial. Therefore, at no time or under no circumstance is INL San Salvador involved in the exportation process.
8.12 The Contractor shall provide updates to INL San Salvador during the complete transit of the canines.
8.13 The Contractor shall provide Master Air Waybill (MAWB) and House Air Waybill (HAWB) drafts to INL San Salvador for approval; both documents shall state the information provided on the consignment instructions. The Contractor shall prepay the HAWB since end-user shall not pay for any fee related to the airfreight, release, etc.
8.14 INL expects that the canines’ clear customs the same day they arrive to the airport in San Salvador. Therefore, airline staff shall be able to hand over all paperwork to INL Logistics no matter the day or time of canine’s arrival. Based on the foregoing, the HAWB shall be TELEX RELEASED, so that the customs broker can ask the airline for documents release 24 hours a day/7 day a week or they can revalidate HAWB against a hard copy, if needed.
8.15 Once the shipment is confirmed, the Contractor shall send a pre-alert email to INL San Salvador along with the complete shipping details such as assigned airline, flight number, estimated time of departure (ETD), estimated time of arrival (ETA), and any other relevant shipping paperwork: final MAWB/HAWB, packing list and canines’ documentation.
8.16 In case flights are delayed over four (4) hours, the Contractor shall provide canine lodging, feeding, and walking at the departing city. When submitting its proposal, the Contractor shall provide pictures of the lodging place.
8.17 If flights are cancelled, the Contractor shall look for the next available flight and provide lodging at/or near the airport, food, and water (only if the airline allows it prior to flight) and exercise the canines until they can board the next flight. If the next available flight is more than two (2) days after the original departure date, the Contractor shall consider taking the canines back to its own facilities and maintain them there until departure. The additional expenses for these eventualities shall be included in Contractor’s quote, but INL shall only pay for the days used.
8.18 The importation process shall be performed either by a PNC customs agent representative. Therefore, the Contractor shall get in contact with INL San Salvador to coordinate the delivery of the canines within AIES facilities. Point of contact (POC), name and contact details shall be confirmed by INL Logistics after award delivery order.
POC:
Consignee: U.S. EMBASSY SAN SALVADOR / INL SAN SALVADOR Purchase Order Number (please enter the PO number when it becomes available) Attn: Ana Leticia Ramos (COR) Boulevard Santa Elena, Antiguo Cuscatlán San Salvador, El Salvador E-mail: ramosAL@state.gov
SECTION 9
PAYMENT TO CONTRACTOR
9.1 PAYMENT FOR CANINES
Once the canines are considered viable (they have passed the initial selection and the medical tests) and have been shipped to El Salvador the contractor can invoice the accepted canines.
2SENSITIVE BUT UNCLASSIFIED
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File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .