To expand the working knowledge for local K-9 handlers, STAND T.A.L.L. recently sponsored Aaron Lawson of the Buncombe County K-9 Unit and Patrick Damato of the Polk County K-9 Unit to attend the 11th Annual International K-9 Cop Conference & Vendor Show in Nashville, TN this past month.
The conference offered attendees a chance to meet and talk with hundreds of other K-9 handlers from around the nation as well as more than 40 breakout sessions that provided experts discussing advanced training methodology. The many K-9 related training sessions covered topics ranging from E-collar training methods, scent training, interdiction techniques to bomb detection skills training. These sessions during the 3-day conference were available for all handlers. They could choose which seminars would be best for them to improve their skills and apply upon their return to their departments for home-based training for all the handlers and their K-9s.
Buncombe County Sheriff's Deputy Aaron Lawson – VP Sharon Hanson & President Ron Kauffman
“We believe that continuing education, and exposure to the latest training techniques and information should be available to as many of our area K-9 handlers as possible. The departments with K-9 units need the opportunity to maintain the highest levels of skills and training and to see the latest equipment for K-9s. We’re happy to sponsor these handlers to attend this year’s conference. One of our upcoming goals is to raise enough money through public donations to sponsor even more K-9 handlers to the conference next year.” - STAND T.A.L.L. Vice President and K-9 Project Leader Sharon Hanson
STAND T.A.L.L. V.P. Sharon Hanson & President Ron Kauffman at the K-9 Vendor Show
STAND T.A.L.L. is a North Carolina based nonprofit 501(c)(3) that supports unbudgeted needs of law enforcement departments in seven counties in western NC and is continuing to expand its reach and impact. For more information, to volunteer or to donate to STAND T.A.L.L. you’re encouraged to visit their website: