Agility Classes
Agility is a fast, fun sport demonstrating the teamwork between a dog and their person. The teamwork is demonstrated on a variety of courses, inspired by some of the challenges seen in the equestrian world. The courses are made up of different obstacles: jumps, tunnels, contacts, weaves and sometimes a pause table (where the handler can catch their breath). There are different types of courses: Standard (traditional agility, using all the obstacles), Jumpers (sometimes with weaves) and various games. The dog must perform the obstacles as directing by their handler off-leash. The goal is to run the course clean and fast.
The person part of the team is responsible for training the dog to understand how to perform the obstacles cleanly. To run clean, the dog must leave the jump bars up, go through tunnels as indicated, hit the contact zones of the contact obstacles (see-saw, dogwalk and A-frame), weave all the poles entering on the correct side and stay on the table in a sit or a down until the table count is completed. Good training will result in a dog that does the obstacles quickly, attentively and cleanly.
The person is also responsible for telling the dog where to go on a course. They do this with different cues, both verbal and physical. The best trained dog won’t be successful without good direction. Agility helps create a deep bond between the person and dog. People of all levels of physical ability can enjoy agility and what dog doesn’t love to play with it’s person? It is the ultimate dog sport for dog lovers.
Mia’s Classes:
Mia has offered a variety of classes for intermediate to advanced teams with topics such as, Agility Foundation, Course Analysis, Agility Games, Cross Options, Start-line & Contact Proofing and Turning Cues. Please email Mia if you have questions about her group classes or are interested in private lessons. Email: agilemandr@aol.com or call her at 252-4378.
Intro to Agility I
Instructor: Scott Savidge
Day & Time: Sundays at 11:00. Setup starts at 10:45.
Class Fee: $90 for a series of six classes for club members, $120 for non-members.
This course is for first time handlers and dogs at least six months of age. Each class will introduce one or two new pieces of equipment and focus on safety as the number one priority. Handlers should bring treats and/or a toy for motivating and rewarding their dog. A secure collar and leash must be worn by the dog during these classes. Dogs should not be aggressive towards other dogs or people. Students must finish the six classes in order to participate in club practices and/or to move on to Agility II or Agility Foundation classes.
Intro to Agility II
Instructor: Scott Savidge
Day & Time: Sundays at 9:00. Setup starts at 8:30
Class Fee: $90 for a series of six classes for club members, $120 for non-members.
In this class we will be expanding on the principles learned in Intro I: Safe use of the equipment, flat work, and basic handling concepts. We will also be concentrating on foundation training exercises that you will be able to take home and work with your dog with little or no equipment. These skills once mastered will help you throughout your agility career. Dogs should have a reliable recall around distractions and be able to focus on you while you are working the exercises.
