Phil Kelly was there and finds out what makes this guy so special.

This week, Columbus is losing one it's finest -- his wagging tail and wet kisses will be missed when he leaves to become a federal officer.

The officer in question is Pete. Pete's a pit bull who was found abandoned in Columbus in February and came within a hair of being euthanized.

But Peg Brody, whose family took Pete in temporarily, saw something special in him and worked tirelessly to find Pete a good home.

His intelligence and natural abilities made him stand out and when Brody heard that the Customs Department was looking for exceptional dogs, they knew Pete would make a perfect special agent.

“We take 100 percent of our dogs from the pound, animal shelters, rescue groups and so forth,” said customs agent David Bynum. “Basically we take the nations unwanted and give them a job.”

The sacrifice for a grateful nation was difficult for Pete’s owners. “When I found out the U.S. Customs Department was looking for a dog like Pete, I got on the phone and called them. I described his personality and they said ‘We're coming, we're gonna come take a look at him.’ “

“I'm thrilled, but also very sad,” Brody said choking up.

Pete passed his test with flying colors and he's now off to Virginia for 12 weeks of training.

All the people he came to know these past few months will really miss Pete. But at the same time, everyone is also extremely excited because it is an honor for him to be picked for the U.S. Customs program and they know he will make a great federal agent.

Customs is always searching for exceptional dogs. If you know of one that needs a new home you can get more information on this program from the U.S. Customs.