UKPD Explosive Detection K9s Pass Annual Certification
LEXINGTON, Ky. (April 20, 2022) — On Thursday, April 7, University of Kentucky Police Department (UKPD) Explosive K9 teams completed their yearly national certification through the North American Police Work Dog Association (NAPWDA).
NAPWDA is a nationally accredited and recognized organization that trains and certifies police K9 teams. All Explosive K9 teams must be able to detect several different explosive odors and are tested in vehicles, rooms, areas with packages and open areas. Each K9 team must successfully pass these areas to become nationally certified through NAPWDA.
This is K9 Junior and Lieutenant Ryan Johnson’s ninth national certification, with several NAPWDA certifications and other certifications through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA).
K9 Kinder and Officer Tanner Reynolds, as well as K9 Pip and Officer Will Milton, completed their initial Explosive K9 training through Ventosa Kennel in North Carolina. They recently received their first APWDA national certification.
UKPD’s K9 unit was established in 2004 and currently has five canine teams. Three canines work in explosive detection and are dual trained for tracking and evidence recovery. All canines are non-aggressive and work UK sporting events, help with dignitary protection and assist outside agencies when help is needed.
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