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Mark Connolly K9 Command 

A dedicated law enforcement officer with a deep passion for K9 work, Mark reentered law enforcement and is currently serving as a Police K9 Handler with his agency. With years of experience, he continues to bring his expertise in training and handling working dogs.

A former Police K9 Handler and K9 Training Director for multiple departments, Mark has handled a wide range of working dogs throughout his career. He is currently handling his fifth police dog and continues to make significant contributions to his department’s K9 unit.

During his time as a K9 Training Director, Mark certified numerous dogs to the North American Police Working Dog Association (NAPWDA) national standards and trained police K9 officers to achieve their certification levels. His impact extends beyond his direct work with K9s, as he has turned underperforming K9 units into highly respected divisions within their departments, earning the respect of veteran K9 trainers and handlers nationwide.

Mark’s life changed forever on April 11th, 2005, when he and K9 Cliff were involved in a high-speed vehicle pursuit of three armed gang members. The chase ended violently in a gunfight, during which Mark was struck by three bullets fired by the fleeing suspects. Remarkably, his bulletproof vest stopped the fatal shot, saving his life. This event ultimately earned Mark both the Purple Heart and a Valor Award for his bravery. Although the incident altered the course of his career, his commitment to serving his community and pursuing justice has never wavered.

In addition to his law enforcement work, Mark continues to help K9 teams across the country, providing training and support. He is also passionate about educating the public on dog behavior and training, ensuring dogs are well-integrated members of their communities. Mark volunteers regularly with local animal shelters and humane societies and serves as a board member for the Lincoln County Animal Advisory Board and the Dangerous Dog Board.

Mark’s service extends beyond his local community. He has also served on the IACP Legislative Committee as Secretary, working on behalf of the International Association of Canine Professionals.

We are pleased to have Vested Interest in K9's as a sponsor. Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. is a 501c(3) non-profit whose mission is to provide bullet and stab-protective vests and other assistance to dogs. Check it out www.vik9s.org.

Please welcome Ray Allen Manufacturing as a sponsor to the podcast. Go to the most trusted name in industry for all of your k9 related equipment. For a 10% discount use the RAMWDDP10 discount code.

Welcome our sponsor Gold Coast K9. Gold Coast K9 trains and deploys hand-selected service dogs for personal and family protection, police agencies, and school districts. Their training programs rank among the best and most trusted in the world. Follow Gold Coast k9 on all social media platforms. For 10% off merchandise use the GCK910 discount code on their website www.goldcoastk9.com

HLTK9 Conference continues to be a supporter of the WDDP. They are gearing up for the next conference in Myrtle Beach SC. Plan ahead, the 2026 conference will be April 14 - 16 2026. Register today at www.htlk9.com.

Welcome our newest sponsor NCK9LLC. Located in Four Oaks NC, just east of Raleigh NC. Jim O'Brien and staff offer a variety of K9 services. Contact them at Phone : 919-353-7149 Email: [email protected]