R429--Procurement of Short Hair German Shepard and Handler Training

The Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas, has issued a Sources Sought Notice seeking market research for the procurement of specialized K-9 services including 2 single-purpose narcotic detection dogs (short hair German Shepherds) and associated handler training services. This is a request for information only, with no current solicitation available, designed to help the VA determine the appropriate procurement strategy for the upcoming formal solicitation. Potential vendors must demonstrate capabilities in providing K-9 narcotic detection dogs, handler training, and tracking services, with specific attention to the origin of the canines and compliance with applicable regulations. The VA is particularly interested in small business concerns and requires respondents to address detailed questions about their qualifications, capabilities, and business size status. Responses to this RFI are due by 3:00 PM Central Time on October 7, 2025, and must be submitted via email to contract specialist Tiffany Burks with specific formatting requirements including 12-point font and 1-inch margins.

This opportunity does not include any set-aside designations at this preliminary stage, though the notice specifically encourages small business participation and references the Small Business Administration size standard of $9 million for NAICS code 812910. No incumbent contractors or current service providers are identified in the documentation. While no specific budget range or award value is disclosed, vendors are encouraged to submit estimated market research pricing to assist the VA in developing their procurement strategy. The requirement specifically calls for 2 K-9 dogs and 2 basic handler training services, indicating a relatively small-scale procurement focused on enhancing the medical center's security and detection capabilities. The timeline for service delivery and contract duration has not been specified in this preliminary market research phase.