Rico Hits the Road During Fall 2025 Tour

In November 2025, MLI’s Canine Ambassador Rico began a week-long tour in Philadelphia, PA.  It was a busy day in Philly, starting with a presentation and demonstration at Jay Cooke School. Following a visit with the students, Rico and the MLI team visited John Moffet School before hopping in the car to head to Berwyn, PA. 

Welcomed by the AMETEK staff, Rico and the team were excited to present to over 30 employees. They were enthusiastic to make the trip to AMETEK to thank them for their generous donation to Rico’s Reach Campaign. Thanks in part to AMETEK's contribution, Rico finished his fundraising campaign this year, securing $20,000 for a mine detection dog.

The day in Philadelphia ended with a wonderful dinner with CHAMPS teachers from the metropolitan area. Though Rico's stay in Philadelphia was brief, it was filled with activities. Following dinner, Rico and the team traveled to Greenwich, Connecticut, to get a good night’s rest before their work there began.

The MLI crew spent three days in Greenwich visiting schools, participating in science classes, and meeting with scout groups and organizations. Rico especially loves to visit the Brunswick School, where students raised funds to sponsor him back in 2014. Rico felt at home while spending the day with 7^th-grade science classes, as he walked around the classroom and even snuck under desks to get pets from the students.  The students learned about Rico’s career and how he uses his sense of smell to locate landmines. The team also visited the Brunswick Primary School, where Rico demonstrated his sniffing skills to the kindergarten students. They were such a wonderful audience. 

The MLI group toured Connecticut, stopping at Greenwich Country Day School, Central Middle School, and North Mianus School. These three schools have been involved in MLI’s CHAMPS program for several years. At North Mianus, students maintain monthly virtual exchange calls with peers in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In addition to school visits, Rico participated in a Cub Scout meeting, and the team visited the Boys and Girls Club. The final visit for the week was with MLI's favorite senior group at Hill House Senior Living. The residents always show so much love and share many pets with Rico.

It was a busy week, and Rico was ready to get home to his own bed and his buddy, and fellow pet of Anne Wooleyhand, Leo.