He has his moments! My dog’s name is Fred and I’m Chester. He’s a five year old Australian Cattle Dog, also called a blue heeler.
I started when he was really young. But, at It’s PAWSible!, I started probably two years ago. I got him as a puppy, it was the first time I ever had a puppy, so I made sure I took him to Basic Obedience. We did the canine good citizen and all that. We did the whole thing, it makes a big difference.
All good things to prepare for agility. What are your reasons for doing the sport?
For bonding really, for me and the dog. He’s a drivey kind of breed --bred to drive cattle and sheep over long distances. Sometimes I think agility isn’t even enough for him, but he’s good at it.
Yes, once he learns it he says “there’s nothing new here!”
Its fun to watch him run a course--and you have the dramatic finish at the end, throwing a frisbee.
Yup he’s gotta have his frisbee!
Have you been to trial?
I’ve been to one actually, we entered three events, he earned three qualifying legs and he earned one each first second and third place.
That sounds like a good first trial to me!
Well it was just level two, its not very advanced yet, but it goes to show the quality of the training you get here.
Are there any accomplishments you’re particularly proud of?
I’m glad I’ve kept up training with with him for this long to be truthful. Usually you get a puppy and you let it raise itself. For me to go five years of classes is impressive to me.
Its a real commitment.
It is, I don’t know if a lot of people realize it.
Are there any challenges that you’ve worked through?
He’s an easy dog. We don’t even practice much at home, once he learns something, it’s there. He’s a remarkable animal.
Any final thoughts for people who want to start agility?
I’d say go for it...its great fun!
