TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The Terre Haute Police Department’s K-9 unit recently showed their skills at an annual competition.

The K-9s participated in the K-9 Olympics in Peru, Indiana, and their handlers from all over the country and the world competed in police scenarios.

Terre Haute’s unit won numerous awards and was also praised for their tactics and team unity.

“It’s a bonding experience for the unit especially for new handlers to come on and kind of see what some of the veteran handlers have been doing over the years. It’s also a sort of a testing ground to present your package as a team with your canine partner and yourself to see you know what are strengths and weaknesses, how do you size up against some of the best in the world?” said Sgt. Anthony Mazzon, THPD K-9 handler.

“Very proud — these guys have done a stand-up job for the amount of time that they’ve been on the unit. Very proud of their efforts and I’m sure they’ll continue to succeed. They got the heart for it,” said Sgt. Todd Haller, THPD K-9 unit leader.

The unit also recently welcomed a new K-9 and handler, the new pair will start at the police department’s K-9 Academy on September 11.