The 19th Desert Dog Police K9 Trials and Public Safety Expo, the largest K9 competition in the United States, is this weekend and will feature more than 70 police canine teams from across the country competing in an epic, action-packed rivalry showcasing the talent, courage and bravery of teams competing in exciting on-field obstacles for the title of “TOP DOG.”
The all-encompassing event is the only K9 competition in the country with as many competitors traveling from vast areas across the western region reaching as far as Anchorage, Alaska, featuring the largest vendor space with daily demonstrations of mega police gear and specialty units showcasing public safety from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22 and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct 23 at WestWorld of Scottsdale.
“We take pride in these police K-9 trials as the largest in the country. It’s a great event for all of Arizona to be proud of and the fact that we’re hosting fellow public safety professionals from around the country who recognize the value in all we do,” said Andrew Carlsson, director of operations for ALECA.
In addition to the action-packed competition, the expo will allow fans up close and personal opportunities to experience real-life public safety action such as demos by Phoenix SWAT, Phoenix Bomb Squad equipment including robots and personal gear, Maricopa County Sherriff’s Office mounted unit of horses and Lake Patrol consisting of air boat and under water remotely-operated vehicles, Pinal County Air Support, Phoenix Fire Department search and rescue K9s and so much more.
“This year’s trials will be more visual and exciting than ever,” said Tony Sanborn, ALECA president. “It’s the true display of courage beyond instinct, that differentiates a police canine from a pet.”
Of course, the expo also features the everyday pre-holiday browsing of food and gift vendors as well as Halloween festivities including Trunk or Treat and ghostly activities capturing the spirit of spooky season, while drawings provide fans with chances to win exciting prizes.
Tickets are $5 tickets, children 12 and under are free. Ticket options at alecapolicek9.com include access to K9 Trials & Competition in the Equidome; North Hall Public Safety Expo featuring exciting demonstrations, vendors and displays, Halloween entertainment and food and holiday shopping. Parking is $10 cash or credit only.
