So, you have gotten your dog to “sit”, “stay”, “down” and “leave it” – now you can add “tunnel”, “A-frame”, “ramp”, “weave poles”, and “jump” as you run along side pointing and turning!
Dog Agility is more than a fast-growing trend – it is an opportunity for you to work as a team with your dog to learn the obstacle course, using vocal commands and body language (and treats) to run the course. It is great exercise for both of you, a chance to do something different together and, best of all, great fun!
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| The Artful Dodger on the A-frame |
We are very fortunate on Nantucket to have a local expert in Dog Agility. Joyce Jaskula, a fellow-Nantucketer, has been competing in Agility trials since 1998 – starting with her Irish water spaniel, Finn, and now, her whippets, Bing, Gus and Pip – and, with them, has won stacks of ribbons. Joyce teaches Agility classes at her outdoor obstacle course off Polpis Road.
I have taken several of Joyce’s classes with Dodger, my English Springer Spaniel. And this weekend, October 19-20, the First Annual Canine Boot Camp will take place at the Brass Lantern!
The Agility Class is in the morning and after our box lunch picnic, it will be time for another canine challenge – your dog’s sniffer! The activity and sport of K9 Nose Work® is designed to develop your dog’s natural scenting abilities by using their desire to hunt and their love of toys, food and exercise- a great way for your dog to have fun, build confidence, and burn lots of mental and physical energy. Our instructor will be Jean McKenzie, one of the first people to become a certified instructor in K9 Nose Work, who is also an accomplished agility competitor and judge.
Space is limited, so, if this sounds interesting, give us a call at 508-228-4064 with any questions you have and book your Canine Boot Camp Weekend.
See you on Island – Michelle Langlois, the Nantucket Bed and Breakfast Inn accidental innkeeper.
