Results tagged “police dogs” from South Bay Pets

Don't forget: The Redondo Beach Police K-9 Team is hosting its 21st annual Police Dog Competition that will include more than 30 police dog teams from all over the region competing for top honors in searching, obedience, agility and manwork (apprehrension).

The free event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Redondo Union High School football field, 631 Vincent Park.

Police officers and canines from across California will compete in trials Saturday, May 10 at Redondo Union High School's football field.

Admission is free for the event that runs from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The school is at Pacific Coast Highway and Diamond Street.

In its 21st year, the competition includes a canine obstacle course, area searches and other activities.

For those wanting to cheer on the Redondo Beach Police Canine Team, check out the following events: Box search, 9 a.m.; obedience and agility, 10:45 a.m.; and manwork, 1:30 p.m. In the last activity -- usually a crowd favorite -- competing canine teams will demonstrate their ability to safely subdue a combative suspect.

The incredible dogs that help protect the Port of Los Angeles are featured in a story by our LAX and port reporter Art Marroquin in today's Daily Breeze.

Port Police have relied on the super-sniffers increasingly since the 9-11 terrorist attacks. The dogs were seen as an important tool in searching for explosives.

Four more dogs and handlers will join the cops-and-canines program by the end of 2009. Dogs now on the job include Edo, Bear and Rika.

"You can't ever stop terrorism," said port police Lt. Mike Cappodanno, head of the canine unit since 2004. "But you need to make the port a harder target to hit."

The dogs undergo rigorous training in Belgium, learning how to pick up the scent of explosive materials and illegal guns and responding to commands in German and French. That way cruise ship passengers, who mostly speak English and Spanish, won't get unduly alarmed.

The dogs seem to love their work, with a good job done always rewarded by a large plastic toy. Food treats are out for these canines who must stick to a strict diet to stay fit.

"They're always enthusiastic," said Officer Tom Yamamoto. "They're working dogs. Theyr'e bred to protect us."