COCOA, FL – K9 Deputy Lauren Donaldson and her partner Zeppelin emerged as the standout performers at the Space Coast K9 Competition this weekend, clinching top honors in two categories. The annual event, hosted by the Cocoa Police Department, drew participants from law enforcement and military units nationwide, testing the skills of K9 officers and their canine partners in various challenges.
While the competition was fierce with 12 teams participating, Deputy Donaldson and Zeppelin distinguished themselves by winning the “Hardest Dog” and “Fastest Dog” awards. This achievement highlights Zeppelin’s exceptional abilities in both agility and strength.
The event was not without its unforeseen moments. Notably, a pre-competition injury sidelined ‘Junny,’ a renowned police dog, leaving the field open for other competitors. Despite this, the event showcased the capabilities and training of K9 units, emphasizing their role in community and national safety.
Other notable performances included Deputy Kenrick Walters with Kovu, Deputy Lee Roth with Lefty, Deputy John Hubinger with Lars, and Deputy Josh Hardy with Richie, all representing their respective agencies commendably. Additionally, Joe Pusich and Hugo from the Air Force 45th Security Forces Squadron triumphed in the Obstacle Course category.
The competition also served as an opportunity for community engagement, with many locals attending to support the teams and acknowledge their contributions to safety. The organizers, Cocoa Police Department, received special recognition for their efforts in hosting and coordinating the event annually.