K-9s is back for its 11th year. Operation K-9 2025 promises all the impressive K-9

demonstrations and free family fun that has made the event a popular tradition for

the entire region. The event will be Thursday, August 14, from 4:30 to 8 p.m., at the

old UWS track next to Wessman Arena, 2701 Catlin Avenue in Superior.

Operation K-9 highlights the K-9 talents of the eight law enforcement agencies that

the Foundation serves, including Duluth, Eveleth, Hermantown, Hibbing, Superior

and Virginia Police Departments and the St. Louis County and Douglas County

Sheriff’s Offices. It is expected that at least 17 K-9 teams will take part in this

year’s event.

Operation K-9 is presented by the AMSOIL Northland Law Enforcement K-9

Foundation and gives the public a chance to see area K-9 teams in action. The event

is free to attend and features K-9 demonstrations and an opportunity to meet the

K-9s from the agencies supported by the Foundation. Attendees also can tour law

enforcement vehicles and equipment on display, plus take part in other familyfriendly activities. There will be a silent auction, along with food and beverages and

K-9 souvenirs available for purchase, with all proceeds going to the K-9 Foundation

to support the K-9 programs of area law enforcement agencies.

“K-9s do amazing work to keep our communities safe. They protect their human

partners and help them work more efficiently and effectively” said Robbin

Champaigne, president of the K-9 Foundation. “But they’re expensive to purchase

and train, and as our agencies are constantly trying to trim costs, we appreciate all

the help we can get from the public to support our K-9 programs.”

Law enforcement K-9s in our region in the last year have helped apprehend armed

suspects wanted for serious crimes, and sniffed out critical evidence as part of

investigations of assaults and drug dealing. They’ve sniffed through entire school

buildings after threats have led to evacuations, enabling children and teachers to

safely and confidently return to classrooms. And they’ve helped protect their human

partners through countless dangerous situations.

Operation K-9 is sponsored by AMSOIL INC., Happy Tails Animal Hospital,

Superior Flooring, Waste Management, SGI AutoGlass, NorthShore Bank,

Centricity, DAV of MN – Gilbert W. Nordmann, Elks Lodge #1003 Virginia,

Minnesota Power, Sam’s Club, Ravin Crossbows, Aqua Power, Grandma’s

Marathon, Superior Animal Hospital, Duluth Veterinary Hospital, Dairy Queen,

EATI, Duluth Energy Systems and Superior Water Light & Power; with additional

in-kind support from Encore Event & Party Express, Mr.Biffy, Carda Bleachers,

Rich’s Cuisine, Sam’s Club, Benson Electric, Arrowhead Printing, UWS and West

Epic Visuals.

The AMSOIL Northland Law Enforcement K-9 Foundation is a registered

501(c)(3) non-profit. For more information on Operation K-9 or the Foundation, or

to make a donation, visit northlandk9.org.