The Alaska State Trooper Canine Unit assists patrol and drug enforcement units in a variety of applications. K9 teams are trained in drug detection, tracking, apprehensions, building searches, area searches and patrol route searches. K9 teams are located in urban posts, Statewide Drug Enforcement Units and the DEA Task Force. A K9 handler is an additional voluntary assignment for specially-qualified Troopers, in addition to their regular duties. K9 handlers remain on call after hours for emergencies.