Aug 23, 2008

CRITTER CORNER: Course aids man, dog relationship develop

Lindsay Reynolds / Daily News Columnist

Jump, now weave, weave, weave, bob and then jump again! No, I'm not practicing a new dance move; I'm visualizing the upcoming Agility for Fun! class offered by Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (PHS/SPCA). Agility is a wonderful opportunity for teams (human + canine) interested in taking their relationship to the next level. The class is for any dog with a solid basic obedience (sit, down, stay, come) and reliable loose lead heeling. It's fun, builds confidence and improves dog/handler communication.

During an agility course, the canine participants (guided by their humans) jump, weave and climb through obstacles and learn to work side by side in unison.

Dogs are introduced to new surfaces and the different types of agility equipment, including tunnels, jumps, weave poles, and "contacts" (obstacles that the dogs have to climb up on). The class will also focus on basic handling exercises teams can practice: walking and running to improve their connection and help them succeed as they navigate the obstacle courses together. Safety considerations and warm-up exercises will also be addressed.

"In all of the training I have done with my own dogs, our fondest times have been on the agility field. There's something special about running side by side with a favorite companion and overcoming obstacles together," explains Rachel Mizenko, dog trainer for PHS/SPCA. She shares her love for agility further by saying, "I am able to help people to develop an awareness of themselves and their canine companions through movement and have a great deal of fun in the process."



Lindsay Reynolds is the outreach coordinator for the Peninsula Humane Society. For more information, visit www.PHS-SPCA.org. or call 650-340-7022 ext. 344.