Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine – Pet owners interested in learning what it takes to compete in agility competitions can learn just that through an upcoming class hosted by the Central Aroostook Kennel Club.
“The Central Aroostook Kennel Club is pleased to host the Introduction to Agility class,” said Jean Morin, publicity director for CAKC.
Morin said for anyone interested in giving agility a try, now’s their chance.
“The CAKC is hosting a day-long workshop with agility trainer Tracy Snow-Cormier, designed to introduce dog and handler to the basics of canine agility,” she said.
According to Morin, Snow-Cormier started competing in agility in 2001 with her German shepherd mix, Maggie.
“Since then, Tracy has added her partner, Haley, an Australian shepherd, and the three have competed throughout New England,” said Morin. “Both dogs have earned their Elite level in NADAC. Maggie finished her medal award in April 2008; and both Maggie and Haley earned 1,000 lifetime points.”
Morin said Haley also earned her Open Triple Superior and Open Versatility awards.
Snow-Cormier has been teaching for a number of years, with a couple of her students pitting their pets’ skills against other pets in AKC competition.
“Tracy has taught introduction and beginning agility for many years. Two of her students have successfully competed in CPE and AKC agility events,” said Morin.
Snow-Cormier is what Morin called a “positive trainer,” using “clicker training techniques.”
The course is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the event taking place at the Riverside Park Recreation Center in Presque Isle.
“Note, this site is unfenced,” said Morin. “Introduction to Agility uses various obstacles, including a tunnel, mini A-frame, weave poles, small teeter, hoops and jumps.”
The course has pre-requisites, said Morin.
“This is a clicker-based curriculum. Dog and handler should have taken CAKCs Canine Good Manners class or be able to demonstrate knowledge and ability in clicker training,” said Morin.
Cost is $40 per dog and handler team. The class is limited to 12 dogs and their handlers.
“There’ll be lots of individual attention. The cost includes lunch and a snack,” said Morin.
To register, contact Kathy Hoppe at 551-6108 or e-mail Tydavent@yahoo.com.
“We recommend if your dog is crate-trained, to bring your crate for your dog when you are not working. Bring a chair, plenty of water and training treats,” noted Morin.
“The site is not fenced in. If your dog will run off, this is not the clinic for you. Dropping a leash while your dog runs through a tunnel is acceptable,” said Morin.
