In an impressive collaboration, Gerken Paving, Inc. has partnered with the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) K-9 unit to provide training sites that mirror real-world scenarios. The initiative, taking place in our Napoleon and Milan locations, provides optimal environments for K-9 teams to sharpen their tracking and location skills.

The OSHP has gained national recognition as a leader in criminal enforcement and drug interdiction, largely due to the effectiveness of its K-9 units. These furry partners are trained in various specialties, including narcotics detection, tracking, and explosive detection, and have proven to be invaluable resources in the ongoing fight against crime.

One of the most commendable aspects of the K-9 program is the extraordinary intuition and expertise these dogs bring to the field. Many of them are adept at locating evidence discarded from vehicles or dropped by suspects during foot pursuits. Beyond their role in apprehension, several K-9s also assist in the search for missing individuals, including vulnerable populations such as children and elderly persons who may wander away from safe surroundings.

The canine stars of this program are primarily Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds, known for their intelligence, agility, and strong work ethic. These remarkable dogs serve a dual purpose: they act as defenders of justice during work hours and cherished companions to their handler families outside of duty, enjoying life in a nurturing home environment.

The commitment to excellence shown by both Gerken Paving and the OSHP demonstrates how effective partnerships can lead to meaningful advancements in public safety. Together, we are not just training dogs—we are enhancing law enforcement capabilities and building a stronger, more secure Ohio for all its residents.

As we celebrate the achievements of these K-9 units, let’s take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of both the canines and their human counterparts. Their relentless pursuit of justice and safety makes a remarkable difference in our lives every day.