All five of the FCPD K-9 teams that entered the 2012 Virginia Police Canine Association (VPCA) Iron Dog competition won awards and recognition for their top abilities testing strength, stamina and team work. Dubbed as "the ultimate police K9 Challenge," this is the third year FCPD teams have partaken in this day-long event. The competition was held Wednesday, May 16, at the Fauquier County Fairgrounds with K-9 teams from over 30 top law enforcement and military agencies across the region.
FCPD K-9 Kodiak took first place as the overall Iron Dog winner for 2012. He and handler, Officer Brad Weeks, also took first place in Firearms and third place in the Muzzle Events.
Blitz took third place in the overall competition, first in Agility, first in Area Search, and second in Firearms Events.
Ike, Zeus and Colt also brought home top awards in both individual and team efforts.
Contestants are timed during a 1.5 mile course that includes stations testing firearms, scent tracking (either narcotic or explosives), decoy apprehension, vehicle searches, and environmental distractions. The course is made challenging with true-to-life obstacles like fences, hedges, creeks and horse jumps for the teams to navigate while running from one station to the next.
To learn more about the Iron Dog competition or VCPA and the vital role K9’s play in public safety, visit http://www.vapolicek9.com/irondog.html.