The top dogs of the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department (SSD) won big recently at the year-end K9 Trial Competition. Every year, Northern California is home to the Western States Police Canine Association competitions that test law enforcement dogs in areas of Obedience, Agility, Handler Protection, and Overall Performance. Hosted this time in South Lake Tahoe, the event was where the County Sheriff’s prized pups went up against 28 other K9 participants for the highest rankings. Though challenged by the cold and rainy weather, they came through to win.
Sgt. Lisa Bowman, Sheriff’s Spokesperson, said: “We’re very proud of our dogs. Our K9s are tough, fierce contenders that prove to be steadfast partners.”
The wins included:
1st Place in Handler Protection for Deputy Gregory and K9 Ronin;
4th Place in Handler Protection for Deputy Pomerson and K9 Drake;
4th Place in Agility for Deputy Pomerson and K9 Ronin; and
2nd Place Overall for Deputy Gregory and K9 Ronin.
SSD works with the Sacramento Sheriff K9 Association to provide them with the most intelligent, accomplished, and courageous police service dogs in the County. These animals are vigorously trained in a wide range of duties like patrolling with the forces, searching for missing persons, sniffing for evidence and catching criminals. Grateful to have these talented K9 companions on the job and off, deputies, SWAT and detectives are just some of the forces that are being assisted.
“The Sacramento Sheriff K9 Association supports us with highly capable dogs that defend, scout and ward off dangers to our community. These certified dogs recognize situations when they have to be aggressive, but also recognize situations when they can be gentle and have fun. Our K9s love being playful at home with their families and performing at these competitions,” stated Sheriff Scott Jones.
It has been a triumphant year for the K9 teams, with Deputy Gregory and K9 Ronin winning 2nd Place, Deputy Pomerson and K9 Drake winning 3rd Place, and Deputy Halk and K9 Drago winning 8th Place Overall for the end of the 2014 season.
Learn more at the K9 Association website. www.ssdk9.com
Writer: Gospel Cruz, Communication and Media Intern
