Montgomery Township Police K-9 teams honored for national certifications

Two Montgomery Township Police canine teams were recognized for their training and performance during a ceremony Monday night honoring their 2025 certification achievements through the United States Police Canine Association.

Officer Robert Ungurean of the Upper Southampton Police Department, president of U.S. Police Canine Association Region 6, presented the awards at the township supervisors meeting, noting the organization is the nation’s oldest and largest certifying body for police K-9 units. Ungurean said the recognition honors teams that successfully complete all required certifications in a calendar year.

Both Montgomery Township dogs are trained as narcotics detection dogs and also earned certifications in patrol work and tracking, a combination that requires completing multiple demanding tests. Narcotics certification involves searching vehicles and rooms for hidden drug scents and narcotics, while tracking exercises require dogs to follow scent trails ranging from roughly 75 to 150 yards, including turns and distractions designed to simulate real-world conditions.

The patrol certification also includes obedience exercises, controlled searches for hidden suspects and criminal apprehension scenarios, where handlers must demonstrate they can deploy and recall their dogs safely.

Ungurean said the achievement is uncommon. Region 6 has roughly 145 members and about 100 dogs eligible to compete in the certification tests, but only four teams completed all three certifications last year, including the two from Montgomery Township.

He praised the township’s K-9 unit for its training standards, noting the accomplishment reflects the level of preparation and commitment required to maintain a successful canine program.

State Rep. Missy Cerrato also attended the recognition and congratulated the officers and their canine partners for their accomplishments and service to the community.