Department of Public Safety
Sat., Feb. 7–Tues., Feb. 10, 2026
At the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, KY
Register Now
And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” Isaiah 6:8
Not Just Another K9 Conference
Beginning in 2023, the Answers in Genesis Department of Public Safety has inspired and challenged local and international K9 handlers disciplined in narcotics, explosive detection, patrol, and more through its annual K9 Conference.
Reality-Based Teaching
Scenario-Based Training
Practice canine first aid, imprinting on various odors (explosive and narcotics), and scenario-based odor detection.
Dynamic Lectures
Discover through lectures pertaining to canines and their use.
One-on-One Instruction
Various patrol scenarios will be offered, giving you an opportunity to fine-tune and improve your professional performance as a canine handler.
For any questions or concerns, please contact Officer Tyler Bennett at tbennett@answersingenesis.org.
What’s Included
- Breakfast & lunch, Sunday through Tuesday
- Access to vendors
- Enlightening lectures
- Collaboration with other professionals
- Various dynamic challenges
- Expansive campus to train
- Low instructor-to-handler ratio
What’s Not Included
- Dog kennels
- Basic K9 care items
- Transportation
- Lodging
Please note: The Ark Encounter will be closed to the public during this event.
Speakers
Adam Witherspoon
Sergeant of AiG DPS K9 Program
Dr. Todd Crowe
Ark Encounter Resident Veterinarian
Ryan Rought
Founder of TACTICA Global Ministries
Registration
PRICE: $220
- Registration is limited to 50 people and will close on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
- Multiple officers from the same department are required to register individually per officer/canine attendee. Any changes to the registered attendee should be communicated to us at least 24 hours prior to the start of the conference.
- Firearms are required to be secured in appropriate patrol vehicles or in the provided gun lockers. ABSOLUTELY NO LIVE AMMO IS PERMITTED DURING THE CONFERENCE UNLESS OTHERWISE APPROVED BY STAFF.
- Dogs are to be leashed when out of kennels/crates at all times unless otherwise directed by staff. Please break dogs only in approved areas and pick up after your dog with the provided rake and shovel.
Sponsors
Partner Hotels
All of our partner hotels offer special rates to Ark Encounter guests. To receive these rates please book your hotel at ArkEncounter.com/places-to-stay.
Experience the Ark Encounter
Completed in 2016, the Ark Encounter has hosted over 8 million visitors from over 130 countries. Come train with over 50 professional K9 handlers in a stunning and immersive campus!
Plan Your VisitBigger Than Imagination
Ark Encounter Location
place
1 Ark Encounter Drive
Williamstown, KY 41097 (see directions)
Just west of the intersection of KY-36 and I-75 (at exit 154).
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