Fairfax County agility classes...

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FRYING PAN PARK in the Equestrian Barn
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Fees: Agility: 6 weeks - $70.

Fall 2008 Agility Classes

Agility classes are held for 6 weeks on Thursdays starting on 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6). 

There will be no DGOTC classes in the Activity Center on 11/20, nor on Thanksgiving Day, 11/27.

If there is a need for cancellations, make-ups will be held on subsequent Thursdays (11/13, 12/4, 12/11 or 12/18). The Activity Center will be reserved for DGOTC agility to be covered from the elements.

Classes to be offered in the Fall are:

6 pm - Introduction to Agility (6 weeks) - Julie Konnor and Brenda Shaver (limit 8 dog/handler teams)

This class is geared for dog/handler teams with no prior agility training. Class will offer introduction to clicker training/shaping behaviors, use of rewards/toys to build motivation, targeting, recalls, release commands, stays, flatwork, board work, buja board, basic jumping skills, introduction to obstacles (table, tunnel, tire) and contacts (low dog walk and A-frame). All exercises will be conducted on-lead. Prerequisite: Successful completion of a sub-novice or advanced obedience level course is recommended; dog to be under good control in class situation.

7 pm - Advanced Agility (6 weeks) - Alan Gersman, guest instructor as available, Karen Zelonis and other members will provide open runs FOR DGOTC MEMBERS ONLY

This class is geared toward handlers and dogs trialing or preparing to trial at the Open or Excellent levels. Coursework is designed to assist handler /dog teams with challenging handling and distance scenarios encountered in competition. Prerequisite: Proficiency with all obstacles, weave poles, and excellent off-leash control and focus is required.

8 pm Introduction to Agility II (6 weeks) Melissa Muniz and Nancy Liebhauser (limit 8 dog/handler teams) Note: Class dates will be 10/2, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6 & 11/13 - THERE IS NO INTRO TO AGILITY II CLASS ON 10/9.

This class is geared toward those who have had some recent introduction to agility instruction. Handlers will continue to work on foundation skills such as targeting, stays, recalls, release commands, board work and motivational toy/drive training. Focus will be on improvement of jumping skills, beginning handling, continuation of work on obstacles (table, tunnel, tire), contacts (A-frame and dog walk), end-contact behaviors, and introduction to teeter and weave poles. Most drills will be conducted on-lead. Pre-requisite: A prior introduction to agility class within the past year. Dogs must be under control and have good attention skills in class situation.


Please read and understand the Training Philosophy and General Class Policies before registering for any agility class.

Introduction

Agility is excellent for helping to build a positive handler-dog bond and confidence in dogs. It is also a great way to reinforce obedience in a fun way. Our strong belief and philosophy is that agility training should be accomplished using exclusively positive reinforcement techniques. You will need plenty of motivational treats or toys for the dog! Clickers are welcome!!

Expectations To Be Held During Class

Dogs enrolled in agility classes must be easily controlled by their handler on a flat collar and not demonstrate any aggressive behavior towards other dogs or people. Prior training in obedience is helpful and dog control on and off-lead is a necessity. All dogs must be controlled and on-lead at all times unless advised to run off-lead by an instructor. It is the responsibility of handlers to ensure that their dog does not enter the space of another dog. During class, only flat collars and leads, or slip leashes, are acceptable (no choke or other training collars, and no tags). A small hand tab with no loop is also acceptable as a secondary leash for those who can run off-lead.

Equipment may not be used unless an instructor is working directly with the dog/handler team and/or teaching a class. Reckless or unsafe handling of dogs and/or equipment as well as excessively harsh treatment of dogs is prohibited and may result in dismissal from class.

Bitches in season are not allowed in agility classes; and it is recommended that they not train in the Activity Center.

Junior Handlers

Children under age 18 may handle a dog in class at the discretion of the instructors, but a parent or guardian must be present in the Activity Center at all times. Children not in the class are not allowed in the training area and must be supervised by an adult.

Day of Class

Please plan to arrive early to help with set up and stay after class to help put away agility equipment. We advise you to bring fresh water for your dog, a towel to wipe off dusty dog feet after class, and bags to pick up after your dog.

The Activity Center is unheated and dusty. Please dress appropriately. Please walk your dog in the grassy areas outside the Activity Center prior to class and dispose of the waste properly in one of the trash receptacles.

Registration

Registration starts Sept 15th only; please respect this date. You will receive an e-mail if your registration was denied.

To register submit a Registration Packet to include items 1-3:

1. Complete a DGOTC application
2. Enclose a copy of the dog's current shot records (required each semester)
3. Enclose a check made out to DGOTC
   * Agility Courses 6 weeks = $70
4. Mail complete Registration Packet to be rostered to:

DGOTC Fairfax Field Sec - FPP
5703 Bent Tree Lane Apt. 203
Centreville, Va 20121

Registration is first come, first rostered and is processed once items 1-3 are received. Spots cannot be held through e-mail/phone, and DGOTC Members take preference.