Showcasing the high-level skills and standards of police K9s and their handlers is the highlight of the annual canine national competition.
Hosted by the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA), the 2023 USPCA PD1 K9 Nationals, gathered more than 100 police dogs and their handlers from across the U.S. The participants meet at the Foley Sports Tourism (FST) Fields to compete in obedience, hidden suspect recovery, article search, and apprehension work. Additionally, evidence recovery portion will take place at the Graham Creek Nature Preserve.
The competition commenced on Sept. 24 and will run until the 29th in Foley, Ala.
“Handlers and their K9 partners are held to extremely high training standards during their patrol duties and while training to meet USPCA standards. The amount of work and dedication it takes to qualify for USPCA nationals is breathtaking,” says competition director, Foley Police Department Sgt. Carlos Lizarraga.
Sgt. Lizarraga says three of Foley’s own K9s and handlers are USPCA members and will be taking part in the event, including himself and his K9, Tua.
“Handlers and their K9 partners are held to extremely high training standards during their patrol duties and while training to meet USPCA standards. The amount of work and dedication it takes to qualify for USPCA nationals is breathtaking,” Lizarraga adds.
All events are free and open to spectators. For more information, click here.