Lethbridge Police Service K9s Bobbie and Bak have graduated from a 20-week training course and are ready to begin their careers. Both dogs are two years old and will live and work with their handlers, helping police locate suspects and evidence. K9 units have become an essential part of the local force’s operations.

Trainer Braylon Hyggen said the dogs trained in building and compound searches, tracking, evidence work, obedience and agility, along with specialized instruction. “They go through several different profiles-everything from building searching, compound searching, tracking, evidence, obedience, agility and some specialized training that includes laser, some firearms,” Hyggen said. “They’re here, graduating and ready to start their careers.”

Monday’s ceremony also marked the retirement of Aron, a six-year-old police dog. Aron will spend retirement with Const. Steve Zwartbol, his handler for the past four years.

Based on reporting by CTV News Calgary.