The Lakeland Police Department is excited to announce its partnership with the United States Police Canine Association (USPCA) in hosting the prestigious 2025 USPCA Region 1 Police K-9 Field Trials. Scheduled to take place from February 9–13, 2025, this event will bring together police officers and K-9 competitors from across the southeastern United States for a week of intense competition and certification testing.
The 2025 USPCA Region 1 Field Trials will feature a diverse range of events, including obedience, detection, and criminal apprehension challenges. Police K-9 teams will demonstrate their skills and expertise as they compete for certification and recognition in these critical areas of law enforcement.
“We are proud to host the 2025 USPCA Region 1 Field Trials in partnership with the United States Police Canine Association,” said Chief Sam Taylor. “This event not only celebrates the dedication and talent of our K-9 teams but also fosters greater collaboration and camaraderie among law enforcement agencies across the region.”
Scheduled Events
This event offers a unique opportunity for the public to witness the extraordinary abilities of police K-9 units in action. While some events will be open to spectators, others, such as detection certification challenges, will be limited to competitors only due to site requirements and to maintain the integrity of the testing process.
The list below provides details about the events open to the public. Visitors attending are encouraged to bring their own chairs. The schedule is subject to change and will be updated on the website at https://lakelandpolicek9trials.com/about-the-event
Monday, February 10, 2025
- Obedience: 9:00 a.m.
- Location: John McGee Park, 2399 Edgewood Dr S, Lakeland
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
- Apprehension without Gunfire: 8:00 a.m.
- Location: John McGee Park, 2399 Edgewood Dr S, Lakeland
- Apprehension with Gunfire: 12:30 p.m.
- Location: John McGee Park, 2399 Edgewood Dr S, Lakeland
Public Demonstration
- Date: Wednesday, February 12, 2025
- Time: 6:00 p.m.
- Location: Kathleen High School Football Field, 1100 Red Devil Way, Lakeland
- This special demonstration will feature competing K-9 teams, with a guest appearance by the Florida State Guard (FSG), who will arrive by helicopter. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Lakeland Police Department handlers and their K-9 partners, explore FSG equipment, and participate in a children’s bike giveaway. Event merchandise, including t-shirts, K-9 calendars, and stuffed K-9 toys, will be available for purchase.
Award announcements will be posted on the event website and social media platforms after the event.
Stay Connected
Daily event photos and updates will be posted on the official Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/2025USPCARegion1K9Trials
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Special thanks to our sponsors, including Hits K-9, Packtrack, and Bunker Depot, whose generous support makes this event possible.
About the Lakeland Police Department
Established in 1885, the Lakeland Police Department employs 272 sworn officers and 122 civilian support personnel. Serving a population of over 120,000 residents, the department is committed to providing public safety services 24/7. The agency is accredited both nationally and within the State of Florida.