Demonstrations of area police dog abilities are scheduled as a new attraction at the Back Street Bash in downtown Greenville on Saturday, April 28.

Joining German Shepherd, Ceiko, from the Greenville PD, will be Belgian Shepherds, Bo and Marek, from the Hunt County Sheriff's Office, German Shepherd, Caro, from the Wylie Police Department, and Belgian Malinois, Braunie and Jammer, from the United States Police Canine Association, Region 20.

Greenville Canine Officer Robert Pemberton said all the officers are extremely proud of their canine partners and will be doing a number of different demonstrations to show off their talents and abilities.

Among the things the public can see are the dogs sniffing out illegal contraband, taking down a suspect, retrieving other hidden objects and general obedience responses to verbal and hand signal commands.

Two demonstrations are scheduled, one beginning at for 11 am, and one schedule to begin at 1:00 p.m. They will be located near the corner of St. John and Jordan streets downtown.

One of the principal organizers and sponsors of the Back Street Bark portion of the festival is Lauri Rocky of the Turtle Creek Veterinary Medical Center.

"We think this is a great opportunity for people to see what dogs can do other than just being pets," Rocky said. "We are really proud to be able to showcase these amazing dogs."

Wylie Police canine, Caro, shown apprehending a decoy suspect, will be among other police K-9 units performing demonstrations at the Back Street Bash
in downtown Greenville on April 28.
(photo courtesy Lara Solt/ Dallas Morning News)

The Back Street Bash is a pet friendly event which includes several dog competitions including Strut your Mutt, Hot Diggity Dog Jog for canine cancer awareness, weenie dog races and a pet/owner lookalike contest.

Live music, a crawfish/shrimp boil, community garage sale and arts and craft vendors are also part of the fun.

The Back Street Bash is organized by the Friends of Main Street.