ARLINGTON – Two Arlington Police K9 dogs visited the Stillaguamish Valley Learning Center Jan. 30 to show students, parents and staff what they can do.

Tara, a black lab, has been trained by her handler, Arlington police officer Kendahl Beecher, for drug work. They are pictured at right. Oso, a German Shepherd, has been trained for patrol work.

His handler, Arlington officer Seth Kinney, explained that both dogs have extensive training.

Kinney answered many questions, including one from a student who asked if the dogs could be trained not to shed.

“It’s great to talk with these students and parents,” Kinney said.

The students had so many fun questions about the dogs. Our goal is to show them what police dogs can do and show them that police are here to help the students and their families if they need it.”

Both dogs demonstrated some of their skills. Tara showed off her sense of smell, and Oso demonstrated his ability to obey commands.

The Stillaguamish Valley Learning Center offers kindergarten through 12th-grade alternative learning experiences through its campus and home programs. There are about 60 students. “We try to hold a career day once a month to show the students what careers are available to them,” Principal Joseph Doucette said.