Agility among ‘fun’ classes at WLAOTC
AUSTRALIAN SHEPARD flies over a jump.
About a year after I adopted Bella, a shiny black Lab, someone at a dog park that we frequented suggested I sign my dog up for an agility class.
“It’s fun,” the dog park visitor said.
I knew nothing about the sport, which I’ve since learned is physically and mentally stimulating both for dogs of all sizes and breeds, and their handlers—which would be me.
I was all in to keep my energetic pup busy and happy.
Beginning-to-advanced agility classes are sponsored by the nonprofit West Los Angeles Obedience Dog Training Club. They are held outdoors near giant jacaranda trees at Cheviot Hills Recreation Center. There was a waiting list, but the club also offers several types of classes, so we took a few obedience classes over the months while we waited.
Eventually we got in to Basic Agility, and over many years we moved up the levels till we landed in Advanced! Bella was a sweetheart—her tail wagged with everyone she met. While she trotted around the course’s many obstacles, the more competitive breeds raced through them. They flew over jumps and sprinted around “weave” poles. The ensemble of equipment on the course resembles a circus site more than a sport designed to teach dog’s to focus on speed and accuracy. (The legendary Westminster Kennel Club hosts a masters in both agility and obedience at its annual televised dog show.)
BELLA WALKS through a weave.
Always a trooper, Bella eventually settled into a brisk walk as she got on in years. She moved slower and slower around the course during each class until she retired altogether a few years before she died at age 15.
I have also run the course with my other dogs: a miniature poodle, now 10; and an energetic Dobermann-cattle dog mix, 3, is a newcomer to the sport.
Whatever their age or breed, an agility class is a great way to spend time outdoors with your pup.
Try it. It’s fun!
For more information on agility and other courses at at the Club, including conformation, nose work and tricks, visit wlaotc.com.
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