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In one of the largest office buildings in Manhattan—home to thousands of employees and buzzing with daily activity—security is a nonstop mission. From sleek conference spaces to bustling communal lounges, every floor is designed for innovation, collaboration and connection. But behind the scenes, helping to ensure a safe environment for all is a team that never stops moving: Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services’ Detection Canine Team Carlos Figueroa and his three-year-old yellow Labrador, Betty.
Since joining Allied Universal last year, Carlos and Betty have become a familiar presence throughout the 12 floors of this enormous flagship building, covering up to five miles a
day sweeping offices, event hubs and public spaces for potential threats. While Betty is a favorite colleague to all with her cute face and puppy-dog eyes, this dog is all business with a clear mission: detect explosives and firearms. Betty’s highly tuned nose can pick up the distinct odors of homemade explosives, as well as metal, oils, cleaning solvents and gunpowder from firearms…even if never fired. "Betty is incredible—high-energy, sharp and always ready to work," Carlos says. "She loves her job, and you can see it in the way she moves through every search with total focus. It makes our work efficient and effective."
From Military Precision to Canine Detection
Carlos's path to canine handling started long before he met Betty. With a calling to serve his country and a desire for challenge, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps and served four years in aviation operations, where he scheduled flights for F/A-18 Hornets—one of the military’s most advanced fighter jets. As the nation’s premier 
expeditionary force, the Marine Corps is built on discipline, adaptability and execution. Carlos was responsible for ensuring seamless flight schedules, coordinating mission-critical air support and maintaining operational readiness in a high-pressure environment. "The Marines push you to be your best—mentally, physically and professionally," Carlos shares. "You learn to think fast, adapt and perform under pressure. That training gave me the focus and discipline I rely on every day in this field."
A Partnership Built on Trust
Carlos and Betty are part of an elite force of more than 1,000 canine detection teams working across Allied Universal deployments in North America. All canines are paired with a single handler and live with their handler’s family, which strengthens their bond and effectiveness in the field through daily training and companionship. Betty quickly became part of the family, bonding with Carlos’s wife and their mini Goldendoodle, Milo. Milo is the first to welcome Betty home after a hard day’s work and they are both always eager for a good game of tag in the backyard followed by some downtime on the couch. "Milo and Betty are best friends," Carlos says. "After a day of working together, it’s great to see her relax and unwind. They say work hard, play hard and that’s Betty."
