Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport is always busy, and keeping it secure is a top priority. Alongside law enforcement, specially trained search dogs play a critical role, silently detecting drugs, explosives, and hidden cash.

One day, during routine rounds in the cargo terminal, a search dog stopped in front of a box from Kazakhstan and grew visibly agitated. Though the package had cleared inspections, the dog’s behavior alarmed the handler. The box had small air holes—possibly vents. A bomb squad was called in, and the area evacuated. Once cleared of explosives, the box was opened—and what they found was shocking: two tiny, dehydrated tiger cubs, crammed inside filthy sawdust. Malnourished and scared, they had endured days without food or water.