Handlers and their K-9s took a trip to Adventure Island for a special training, allowing the dogs to get hands-on experience mimicking the region’s waterways.

TAMPA, Fla. — Tampa police officers hosted a specialized training session for law enforcement agencies and their K-9s at a water park.

The annual event at Adventure Island on Tuesday provided handlers and their partners with an opportunity to train in an environment mimicking the region’s extensive network of waterways. Officials said it’s essential for K-9 teams to be prepared to operate in and around water.

“Whether tracking or conducting area searches, these skills are vital to real-world operations,” a news release stated.

Corporal Keith Padellaro said agencies from across the region, as far east as Orlando and as south as Sarasota, came to get their K-9s acclimated to the water. 

Throughout the day, teams rotated through training stations such as water exercises and detection scenarios. 

There were three scenarios, including a wave pool, a pool swim and a splash pad. This helps build the dogs’ confidence around water, Padellaro said. 

“The dog has the handler to rely on, and they know they can work in a habitat like the water without any hesitation,” he said.Â