San Diego Comic-Con International officially starts Thursday, but authorities have already been very busy adding new security measures.
The San Diego Police Department (SDPD) has added some new resources, in both human and canidae form.
Golden retrievers and labs, part of SDPD's K-9 unit, will be making their rounds both inside and outside of Comic-Con, sniffing for anything out of the ordinary.
Golden retrievers and labs are friendly and work best maneuvering through crowds independently, SDPD said.
"It’s fine having the extra dogs and it does give more of a feeling of safety for us," said San Diego native and avid Comic-Con attendee Nick Cincotta.
This dogs will make their way in and out of the crowds and the handler will always be nearby.
SDPD couldn't specify how many dogs are in this program but did say each one goes home with their handler who is also an officer with SDPD.
Local
The dogs have also been used recently at the Rock ‘n Roll Marathon, as well as Pride Fest.
SDPD said you can expect the dogs at any local event that brings in large crowds.
Extra human security personnel will also be present, especially along Harbor Drive which is now closed to vehicle traffic and will be filled with people.
Harbor Drive will remain closed -- to bikes and scooters, too -- from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, between First Avenue and Park Boulevard.
