The trainer sets up pieces of agility equipment to be used in class.
Today was a big day for Annie. She started her first agility class. We were the first to arrive – 15 minutes ahead. Since she is shy when presented with a new situation, it was important to allow her plenty of time to check out the training center and get settled in. She watched as the the trainer brought out the agility equipment to be introduced in class. Then, she went over to investigate each piece. By the time the other 3 dogs arrived for class, Annie was feeling quite comfortable in her environment. She watched, curiously, as each newcomer entered… all the time, her tail was wagging.
Annie checks out the equipment.
The class is held at the Collared Scholar. I love this training center. It’s a great facility – not too large, nor too small. Class size is deliberately kept small. There is no problem hearing what the instructor is saying and with the small classes, owners and dogs have plenty of practice time. This is where I teach my Therapy Dog Training Workshops (A Beginners Workshop is scheduled for June 12, 2011 from 10:00-12:00. If interested, you can find information about it on our Bright Spot Therapy Dogs, Inc. website.).
Today, Annie and her classmates were introduced to 5 pieces of agility equipment. Annie was smiling the entire time! After class, we headed to the real thing… several of our Bright Spot friends were competing in an agility trial not too far away, so Annie had a chance to watch competition in action, meet some more new dogs and people… great socialization.
Annie leaves class all smiles!
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