The 20th Desert Dog Police K9 Trials and Public Safety Expo returns to WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Road, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct 21, and 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22.

Seventy police K9 teams compete in a show of courage beyond instinct in this real-world scenario contest where fans also will witness the “human side” of law enforcement in the Equidome at WestWorld. The up-closs exploits of police K9s and their handlers will be in full view with on-field obstacles that replicate real-life crime challenges experienced on the front lines.

More than 100 participants, including demonstrations, fill the Public Safety Expo in WestWorld’s North Hall which, this year for the first time, features a schedule of speakers and experts to answer questions; for example, ALECA’s veterinarian will share pet care tips and the difference in caring for a domestic pet versus the physical demands of a police K9. The expo spotlights top law enforcement technologies along with massive equipment for children to see and touch firsthand: a helicopter, fire ladder trucks, a critical incident armored vehicle (aka the “Rook”), squad cars, SWAT gear and more. Plus, children of all ages can enjoy Halloween Trunk or Treat in the North Hall.

Guests can also do early holiday shopping and browse a variety of booths, including food, and grab rare close-up glimpses into the lives of first responders, displays of state-of-the-art search and rescue equipment and meet the rescuers themselves. The expo also delivers the opportunity to explore the latest in police equipment and squad cars, SWAT and fire fighting vehicles, mini police K9 demonstrations in the expo and helicopter flyovers.

Each year, the event presents a “dream” gift to a young person struggling with critical health challenges in an ALECA giving initiative entitled Colin’s K9 Dream – the dream to be a “policeman for a day.” This year, Colin’s K9 Dream will be presented midday on Saturday at the event. The name of this tribute stems from the high-spirited and courageous Colin, a young boy who displayed inspiring fortitude in his battle against a rare form of terminal cancer, a battle he eventually lost. Colin’s bittersweet story gave birth to Colin’s K9 Dream, now an annual ceremonial tribute to him, providing another youngster dealing with similar health struggles the

Ticket options are available at alecapolicek9.com.