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Foundation
training in dog agility is about the journey.
Reg Shaffer of
DogGone Digital captured this moment at a TRACS trial in
2006, probably one of my favorite photos ever of my
dogs and me competing in agility. Thanks to Reg for
allowing me to share it with you.
Megan and I are
pictured here competing in Novice Preferred. Megan is
9 years old, and I have retired her to Preferred only 3 legs
short of her MX. I'm keenly aware that this will be her last
year competing in agility. This is our first
trial in two years. I'm looking over at the timer for
her signal to start. And, well, it's obvious where
Megan is looking.
So, what do you
think is the pinnacle of competing in the sport of dog
agility? Is it crossing the finish line with your dog,
relishing that title or ribbon you just won?
I have to admit
that's a really good feeling--the culmination of all of your
hard work, dreams and aspirations. After some years
and life experiences, however, I have to say that's at best
the second highest achievement in agility.
To me, the crowning
moment in the sport of dog agility, if you have to pick just
one, is stepping up to the startline with your partner and
the most important member of your team: your dog.
It's an honor and a
privilege to have the devotion and unconditional love that
your dog gives you. There is no greater glory than
having a dog want to be with you and be your partner in this
team sport--never mind the exceptional privilege that we
live in a nation where adults can play all day with their
dogs. Your partnership with your dog in agility
all comes together in that moment that the two of you step
up to the startline. Just being there is the ultimate
reward and ultimate privilege of sharing your life with your
dog.
When you're training
and competing your dog in agility, it's all about the
journey--the destinations you reach are only frosting on the
cake. And because they're dogs, that journey is just
way way too short. Please enjoy every single minute
you spend with your best friend, from every moment of
training in the backyard, to going to class, to traveling to
trials and spending the day with your human and canine
buddies, laughing, sharing and cheering each other on.
Oh yes, and don't forget to enjoy that whole 30 or 40
seconds you spend in the ring with your teammate. |
