Agility began 26 years ago in 1978, when it was used as a novelty event between the main events at Crufts Dog show. Interest was immediate and a number of clubs were soon established and competitions started. There are now Kennel Club and unaffiliated shows around the UK.
Agility is a handler and dog negotiating a series of obstacles, arranged into a course by the judge, as accurately as possible and in the fastest time possible. The obstacles are arranged in a course between 16 and 20 items, which will test control, skill and speed. The items include a number of jumps together with all or any of the following; dog walk, A frame, see- saw, floppy or rigid tunnel, tyre, long jump, wishing well, spread, pause box, table, wall, weave poles.
All breeds can be considered suitable for Agility, the smaller breeds will jump at a lower height (like Jack Russells, Mini Poodles). Larger breeds (like Collies, GSDs) will jump full height which is a maximum of 65cms. And of course, Crossbreeds of any size.
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Whirlwind’s aim is to train positive agility to each dog and handler on an individual basis to help reach their optimum performance. Please take your time on contacts and waits. Try different handling techniques (which will be explained to you). Do not be afraid to repeat an exercise, try again or improve your run. It is important to have good basic skills and communication with your dog. Nothing is achieved by getting angry with yourself or your dog. Your dog will only learn by repeating an exercise correctly and being praised, and build confidence in the both of you. Never compete against others in your class, as everyone is different and everyone has their own talents, you just have to find them.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO TRY AGILITY, BUT HAVE NO DOG, OR THINKING OF GETTING A DOG.
BOOK A LESSON WITH FLEA, MAKES A GREAT PRESENT. Email Flea for more information and cost.
Agility Addiction by Sue White
You know you're well and truly hooked
When every weekend in the summer is booked
When even your annual holiday vacation
Has become another agility vocation.
You know when you've gone round the bend
When you get every schedule for which you can send
When you've spent every last penny and pound
On your not so good, but loveable hound.
You know when you've gone totally cuckoo
When the accommodation's a tent with an outside loo
When your feet are wet and your hands are cold
And your dog still will not do what it's told.
You know when you're out of your head
When at five in the morning you're out of your bed
When the odds of winning are 400 to 1
But you still carry on doing it 'just for fun.'
You know it's finally taken over your life
When you've covered the distance from London to Fife
When nothing will make you miss your agility session
And you've booked up every type of course and lesson.
You know when it has affected your brain
When you're standing in a field in the pouring rain
When your heart is beating and you're gasping for air
And you're covered in mud, and still don't care.
You know you are certifiably insane
When you study a course again and again
When you are willing to travel mile after mile
For one small rosette that still makes you smile!