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Gastonia, North Carolina Hosts National K-9 Trials, Celebrating Canine Officers and Law Enforcement Unity

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Published on October 30, 2025
Gastonia, North Carolina Hosts National K-9 Trials, Celebrating Canine Officers and Law Enforcement UnitySource: Facebook/Gastonia Police Department

The Gastonia Police Department recently hosted the United Police Work Dog Association (UPWDA) K-9 Trials, welcoming law enforcement teams from across the United States. The event, held at the department’s facilities and nearby parks in Gastonia, North Carolina, provided testing and recertification for police dogs.

social media post by the department noted that the trials included a range of "real-world scenarios," such as tracking, detection, obedience, and apprehension exercises. The trials focused on testing the skills of the K-9 teams while also providing an opportunity for officers and their canine partners to exchange techniques and strengthen inter-agency coordination.

The department shared a video highlighting the week’s activities, providing the public with an inside look at the training and work of K-9 teams. "We’re honored to have welcomed these dedicated teams and their incredible partners who work every day to keep their communities safe," the Gastonia PD stated in their social media post.