Police K-9 skills shine at annual Delaware County competition

CITY OF HAVERFORD, Pennsylvania (WPVI) — Becoming a K-9 officer has always been a dream for Lawrence McLaughlin of the Haverford Township Police Department.

“We each have our own dog, which we all take home. We can name them, choose them,” Officer McLaughlin said. “They are your best friends. They are there to protect you. You are there to protect her.

Today McLaughlin and his four-legged partner competed in the 7th Annual Delaware County Police K-9 Competition. The community event at Haverford Middle School encourages families to observe the amazing skills of local dogs that protect and serve.

“A K-9 is capable of conducting searches, arresting some suspects if necessary, finding drugs and narcotics,” said Lieutenant Craig Scott. “In today’s competition, you’re going to see them making examples of all of that.”

Officials from Philadelphia, Delaware County and Bucks County demonstrated search techniques, obstacle courses, and concern and restraint.

“The second benefit of this whole competition is that it brings the K-9 community together,” said Scott. “They rely on each other throughout the year for a lot of information.”

Community is at the heart of the annual event, made possible by generous donors. In addition, volunteers sold T-shirts to raise funds for K-9 relief at the SPCA in Florida.

To find out more about the annual event and upcoming activities with local police, visit the Haverford Township Police Department Facebook page.

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