Kennel Club to offer summer classes

For area dog owners looking for a lively way to challenge and interact with their pet, the Central Aroostook Kennel Club will be offering “Agility I, Getting Started,” a beginner’s agility class for handlers and dogs.
   According to Kennel Club President Kathy Hoppe, “People have been quite enthusiastic about trying agility with their dogs, and many have asked about regular classes, so we’re continuing to offer summer sessions.”
Agility is a dog/handler team sport where the dog is the athlete and the handler is the guide. Dogs are directed through a series of jumps, tunnels, and various other obstacles on a course. As Hoppe explains, “Agility increases the dog/handler bond and communication by using body language and verbal commands to control the dog.” It remains the fastest growing dog sport, with opportunities for fun and competition.
“Agility I, Getting Started” class will be held for six weeks on Saturday mornings, beginning at 9 a.m. June 23 in Portage. Pre-registration is required. The Kennel Club is lucky to have a very experienced agility competitor and trainer teaching the classes, Tracy Snow-Cormier.
Cormier has been competing throughout New England with her dogs, Maggie and Haley, and has won numerous awards and titles. Participants should have some knowledge of basic clicker methods or have attended Canine Good Manners classes offered by the club.
Hoppe emphasizes “the class is open to anyone with any type of dog.” The only requirements are that dogs/puppies are at least 6 months old, and owners must have some knowledge of clicker methods and basic control over their dog. The fee is $75 for each dog/handler team.
To register or for more information, contact Snow-Cormier at 435-6150 or at agilecowdogs@yahoo.com.